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Paying rent and deposit

You'll usually pay the first month's rent and the deposit on the day you move into the property.

You should make sure you get a receipt for any payments you make to your landlord and agree a way that future payments should be made.

Some landlords will want you to set up a standing order with your bank – this means a set amount will be taken out of your bank account and paid into theirs on a certain date every month.

Your landlord is not allowed to charge you any more than two months' rent as a deposit. For example, if your rent is £400 a month, your deposit cannot be more than £800

Landlords and letting agents cannot charge you any extra money to start, renew or continue your tenancy. This includes charges like:

  • administration fees
  • credit checks
  • holding fees (including refundable and non refundable fees)

These are called 'illegal premiums'. If you think you've been charged an illegal premium, you may be able to claim this back and your landlord or letting agent may be guilty of an offence. If you think you've been charged an illegal premium, you should seek legal advice or contact Citizens Advice Scotland for further advice.

Tenancy deposit scheme

You will pay your deposit directly to your letting agent or landlord, who will lodge it in one of three tenancy deposit schemes.

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