If you don’t have access to your Certificate code or Unique ID, please use the form below to search for your deposit by entering information about your tenancy.
Tenant Information
FAQ’s
A tenancy caution fee is a refundable caution fee paid by a tenant to a landlord as security against damages or breach of the lease.
Yes, it is refundable if the tenant meets the terms of the tenancy and returns the property in good condition.
Typically 5%–10% of the annual rent or a fixed amount, depending on the landlord or property.
At the beginning of the tenancy, usually with the first rent and other charges.
It covers damage repair, unpaid bills or service charges, and breaches of the tenancy agreement.
Only if justified by property damage, unpaid bills, or a breach of the lease — and this must be documented.
* Keep the property in good condition
* Clear all bills and charges
* Conduct inventory checks
* Keep all payment records
No. If no lease terms were broken, the landlord must refund the caution fee. Tenants can report unfair withholding to TCF.
Yes. Refunds are expected within 7–30 days after moving out, depending on the agreed terms.
No, it's not intended for rent and doing so could lead to legal issues or forfeiture.
Depends on the caution fee amount (see landlord FAQ #11).
No. The only valid TCF contact points are listed on the official site.
To protect tenants from unfair deductions and to ensure landlords handle caution fees transparently.
Caution fees are paid to TCF, held securely, and only released after both parties agree or a dispute is resolved fairly.
TCF, a regulated body, holds the caution fees in trust and ensures fair handling of all funds.
Yes. It is mandatory once fully implemented.
* Protection from unfair deductions
* Transparent tracking of your caution fee
* Faster, fair dispute resolution
* Confidence in caution fee refunds
Held in a secure account by TCF and not accessible to landlords during tenancy.
TCF freezes the caution fee, reviews evidence from both parties, and makes a fair, final decision.
Usually within a couple of weeks once all agreements and inspections are completed.
Major damages, unpaid rent, or cleaning costs — but must be proven with receipts or photos.
Yes. TCF provides a full breakdown of all deductions on your account.
Via TCF’s free ADR (Alternative dispute resolution) process, where trained adjudicators review evidence and give a binding decision.
You or the landlord register the tenancy and caution fee on the TCF platform and receive confirmation once completed.
The landlord may lose the right to keep it and face penalties. Tenants should report this to housing authorities.
Yes. TCF is fully digital and accessible 24/7.
See the TCF caution fee breakdown (question 11).
Visit the official website for live chat, email, or phone support.
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