Deposit cap
The legal maximum deposit a landlord can take.
2 min read · Updated 2 August 2026
Overview
Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019 the tenancy deposit is capped at five weeks' rent where annual rent is under £50,000, and six weeks' rent at or above that figure. A holding deposit is capped separately at one week's rent.
Legal requirements
- Taking more than the cap is a prohibited payment and must be repaid.
- The cap is calculated on the annual rent divided by 52, multiplied by five.
Practical guidance
- Recalculate the cap if the rent later increases — you cannot top up above the limit unlawfully.
This wiki entry is 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.