Student Accommodation Deposits: How Much and Do I Get It Back?
One of the most frequent questions we hear at Homes for Students relates to the fee you pay before move-in day. It is completely natural to feel a bit protective of your cash, but understanding the logic behind student accommodation deposits can turn a stressful payment into a simple tick-box exercise. Deposits are essentially a safety net that helps keep our communities high-quality and well-maintained for everyone.
| Feature | Typical Details |
| Average Deposit | Typically £100 – £250 (may be higher in London) |
| Protection Scheme | Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) |
| Legal Cap | Maximum 5 weeks’ rent (in England) |
| Refund Timeline | Generally, within 10 days of an agreed amount |
How Much is a Student Accommodation Deposit?
In many cases, your deposit for the 2026/27 academic year will sit between £100 and £250. However, if you are looking at properties in London, these amounts are often higher to reflect the high demand in this market.
By law in England, a security deposit cannot exceed the equivalent of five weeks’ rent. This ensures that while your room is protected, the upfront cost remains manageable. You might also encounter a ‘holding deposit’ to reserve your room. At the same time, paperwork is finalised, which is usually capped at one week’s rent and often goes towards your first rent payment or security deposit once the agreement is signed.
Is My Money Safe?
Yes, your money is protected by law. At Homes for Students, we use the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS).
The process is straightforward:
- Protection: We are legally required to place your deposit in a government-authorised scheme like the TDS within 30 days of receiving it.
- Certification: You will receive ‘prescribed information’ or a certificate proving your deposit is registered.
- Impartiality: The scheme acts as an independent middleman. This means we cannot keep your money without a valid, evidenced reason that you have the right to challenge.
How Do I Get My Deposit Back?
Every student’s goal should be to see all of their student accommodation deposit return to their bank account at the end of the year. Generally, the refund process starts after you move out and the room has been inspected.
| Action | Why it Matters |
| Take Photos at Move-in | Provides a baseline of the room’s condition. |
| Report Maintenance Early | Prevents small issues from becoming “damage” later. |
| Clean Thoroughly | Most deductions are for professional cleaning fees. |
| Check Your Inventory | Ensuring all provided furniture is present and intact. |
Once we agree on the refund amount, the money should be returned to you within 10 days. If there is a disagreement, the TDS offers a free dispute resolution service to decide fairly based on the evidence provided by both sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my deposit to pay my last month’s rent?
Generally, no. Your deposit and rent are treated as separate financial pots. The deposit is held specifically for potential damages or cleaning, while rent covers your stay.
What is ‘fair wear and tear’?
This refers to the natural decline in the condition of a property over time, such as slightly worn carpets in high-traffic areas. You are not responsible for paying for fair wear and tear, only for actual damage or neglect.
Ready to Find Your Room?
Now you know how to navigate the tricky world of student accommodation deposits, it’s time to set your sights on your ideal room.
At Homes for Students, we have dozens of properties across the UK and Ireland that promise to make your university experience the best it can be.