What is the maximum deposit I can charge?
Five weeks in England and Wales, two months in Scotland — with a one-week cap on holding deposits.
3 min read · Updated 2 August 2026
Overview
The Tenant Fees Act 2019 caps deposits in England at five weeks rent, rising to six weeks where the annual rent is £50,000 or more. Wales applies the same caps under the Renting Homes (Fees etc.) (Wales) Act 2019. Scotland caps deposits at two months rent. Holding deposits are capped at one weeks rent across England and Wales.
Practical guidance
- Calculate five weeks as monthly rent x 12 / 52 x 5 — not simply one months rent plus a bit.
- Anything above the cap is a prohibited payment and must be repaid.
- A holding deposit must be repaid or applied to the rent or deposit within 7 days of the tenancy starting.
Related content
General information for UK landlords and letting agents, not legal advice. Rules differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland — check your local requirements or take advice before acting.