A tenancy deposit protection scheme safeguards a deposit paid for an assured shorthold tenancy, so it is not simply kept by the landlord during a dispute. In England and Wales, landlords must usually protect the deposit in an approved scheme and give the tenant prescribed information within 30 days of receiving it. At the end of the tenancy, the deposit should be returned by agreement, or the scheme can provide a free dispute-resolution service if deductions are challenged. Rules differ in Scotland and Northern Ireland, so check the relevant guidance on GOV.UK or your devolved government’s website.