In England and Wales, compare the approved schemes—DPS, TDS and mydeposits—by checking whether they offer custodial protection, where the scheme holds the money, and how disputes are handled. Custodial schemes hold the deposit without charge, while insured schemes let the landlord keep it and may involve fees for the landlord. Your landlord or agent must protect the deposit and provide prescribed information within 30 days, and the scheme should offer a free dispute process if you disagree about deductions. Check the relevant scheme’s current terms on its official website, as arrangements differ elsewhere in the UK.