Most private landlords ask for a deposit to cover any possible future damage to the home and for rent in advance (4-6 weeks) in case of you fail to pay the rent. Some private landlords, however, do not ask for a deposit or advanced rent.
If you are struggling with the deposit and looking for some advice and help please contact us.
Landlords must protect the deposit through a government-backed scheme, so that you can get it back at the end of the tenancy. You have a legal right to this protection and, if the landlord has not given you information about the scheme within two weeks of payment of the deposit, you should seek advice from your local Citizens Advice office.