However, research from the Deposit Protection Service (DPS), the custodial tenancy deposit protection scheme accredited by the Government, suggests that the number of landlords failing to register tenants’ deposits has halved since 2008, when the last survey was carried out.

Mr Mimmack, from the firm which offers Birmingham apartments to let , property to rent in Leamington and Warwick property to let , said, “It is fantastic that more landlords are co-operating but it is a shame that a third of all landlords are still breaking the law over deposits. Ignorance is no excuse and so landlords in doubt are able to contact our team, should they require clarification on any aspect of tenant deposits.”

There have been calls for new measures, including a national register of landlords, to further reduce those failing to register tenant deposits. While this proposal has been a topic of debate, there is suggestion that the register would ensure landlords were made fully aware of all of their responsibilities and would also be useful when concerning tenancy agreements, court proceedings and housing benefit claims.

Mr. Mimmack added, “Whether a register is introduced ornot, landlords who are not complying with the law may not be doing so intentionally. We therefore urge all landlords to make sure they are aware of the existing legislation surrounding deposits, especially if they want to avoid fines in the current economic climate.”

More information can be found on the Deposit Protection Service website: https://www.depositprotection.com/.