Third-party deposits
My deposit was paid by someone else
Deposits paid by councils, charities, parents or guarantors must still be protected. The person who paid is a 'relevant person' and must also receive the Prescribed Information.
Who counts as a relevant person
Anyone who paid the deposit on your behalf, such as a family member or local authority deposit scheme, is a relevant person under section 213.
Who can claim
The tenant, or a relevant person, can bring a claim. Where someone else paid, agree between you how any return and compensation is handled.
Help with deposits
If you receive benefits such as Universal Credit, your local council may offer a deposit or bond scheme. Bond schemes are not always cash deposits, so check what was actually paid.
Frequently asked questions
My parents paid — can I still claim?
Yes. The tenant can claim, and your parents as the payer are also entitled to the Prescribed Information.
Does a council bond need protecting?
A non-cash guarantee bond is not usually a deposit that needs protecting, but cash deposits paid by a council are.
How much could you claim?
Use the free calculator to estimate your compensation and generate a letter before action.
Open the calculator