Private Landlords ignoring tenancy deposit laws
3 November 2009
Since April 2007, all deposits taken by landlords and agents under Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) must be protected under a tenancy deposit protection scheme, such as the Deposit Protection Service (DPS). Surprisingly, a recent survey by the DPS has shown that almost one in 3 private landlords is still not abiding by the deposit legislation.

Designed to protect tenants from dishonest landlords withholding deposits unfairly, the legislation has generally proved to be successful with the number of unruly landlords who flout the rules falling. However, it seems that more still needs to be done to make sure the remaining rogue landlords have nowhere to run from the law. Some have suggested that the introduction of a mandatory national register could be a solution, making sure everyone, landlords and tenants alike, are made totally aware of their obligations and rights. It seems certain that regulation in the lettings sector is set to increase, so selecting an experienced agent is key to getting it right.

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