Case study: Hampshire Trust Bank delivers funding for environmentally-friendly rural development

What is a deposit protection scheme 

Deposit protection schemes exist to ensure that tenants’ deposits are kept safe and handled fairly throughout a tenancy. By law, landlords must place your deposit in a government-approved scheme within thirty days of receiving it. At the end of the tenancy, deductions can only be made for agreed reasons such as unpaid rent or property damage. If there is a dispute over deductions, the scheme provides a resolution service to ensure fairness for both parties. 

What is changing in 2025 

New measures are being introduced to improve deposit protection, increase transparency, and make it easier for tenants to track and manage their deposits. Some of the key changes include. 

Digital tracking and notifications  

More schemes are moving towards online systems where tenants can log in and check the status of their deposit at any time. You may now receive automated updates confirming when your deposit has been protected and details on how to retrieve it at the end of your tenancy. 

Faster dispute resolution 

Improvements to the resolution process mean that disputes over deposit deductions are expected to be resolved more quickly. Some schemes are introducing stricter timeframes for landlords and tenants to submit evidence, helping to prevent unnecessary delays in getting your money back. 

Stronger penalties for landlords who fail to comply 

If a landlord does not protect your deposit correctly, they can now face tougher financial penalties. This change is designed to encourage full compliance with the law and ensure tenants’ money is safeguarded properly. 

How these changes benefit tenants 

The updates to deposit protection schemes are designed to make the process fairer, clearer, and more efficient for tenants. Here is how you will benefit. 

Greater transparency  

With more digital tracking options, tenants will have better access to deposit information, reducing uncertainty and making it easier to check that their money is being handled correctly. 

Quicker access to your deposit  

Faster dispute resolution means tenants will not have to wait as long to receive their deposit back at the end of a tenancy, even if there is a disagreement over deductions. 

More security for your money 

Stronger penalties for landlords who fail to protect deposits properly mean fewer risks for tenants. If your landlord does not follow the correct process, you will have more legal backing to claim compensation. 

How to check if your deposit is protected 

If you have paid a deposit, your landlord or letting agent should provide you with details of where it has been registered. In England and Wales, deposits must be held in one of three government-approved schemes. 

• Tenancy Deposit Scheme TDS 
• Deposit Protection Service DPS 
• My Deposits 

You can check whether your deposit is protected by visiting the website of these schemes and entering your tenancy details. If your landlord has not provided you with deposit protection information, ask them for it immediately. If they fail to protect your deposit, you may be entitled to compensation of up to three times the deposit amount. 

What to do at the end of your tenancy 

To ensure you get your full deposit back, follow these steps before moving out: 

Check the tenancy agreement: Review the terms regarding deposit deductions to understand what could be charged at the end of the tenancy. 

Document the property’s condition: Take photos and videos when moving out to provide evidence that you are leaving the property in good condition. 

Request your deposit return promptly: Once you have moved out, formally request your deposit back through the protection scheme to start the process. 

A fairer and more secure system for tenants 

The updates to deposit protection in 2025 are designed to make renting fairer and more transparent for tenants. With better tracking, faster resolutions, and stricter enforcement for landlords, tenants can feel more secure that their deposits are being handled properly. Knowing your rights and taking simple steps to check your deposit is protected can help ensure a smooth rental experience. 

Contact us for guidance on your rights as a tenant and how to ensure your deposit is safe

Property technology (PropTech) is playing an increasingly important role in the UK property market, transforming the way estate agencies operate. In 2025, PropTech is not just about virtual viewings or online listings; it’s about creating a seamless experience for both buyers and sellers, making the process faster, more efficient, and more transparent.

One of the key innovations is the use of AI and big data to assess property values and predict market trends. Estate agents can now leverage these tools to provide more accurate valuations and better match buyers with properties that meet their needs. PropTech also enables agencies to offer services like automated document management, virtual property tours, and digital contracts, allowing clients to manage their property transactions from anywhere, at any time.

In addition, PropTech solutions are helping estate agencies offer more personalised services. By analysing customer preferences and behaviour, these technologies allow agents to offer tailored property recommendations and marketing strategies. For example, some agencies now use virtual reality (VR) to give potential buyers a realistic tour of a property, making it easier for them to make decisions without having to visit in person.

In a competitive market, adopting PropTech allows estate agents to streamline operations, improve customer service, and stay ahead of the curve. For clients, it means faster, more efficient processes and access to cutting-edge tools that make property transactions more convenient.

In 2025, property investors are facing a changing landscape as new tax rules and regulations come into effect. These changes aim to promote fairness in the housing market and ensure that property investment remains sustainable. For investors, it’s essential to understand how these rules could affect their bottom line and investment strategy.

One of the most significant changes is the reduction of tax relief on mortgage interest for buy-to-let properties. Over the past few years, the government has phased out the ability for landlords to deduct all mortgage interest from rental income before paying tax, and by 2025, this rule will have fully taken effect. This change has increased the tax burden for many property investors, particularly those with large mortgage loans.

Additionally, there has been an introduction of new capital gains tax (CGT) rules for landlords. Investors selling properties will now face higher CGT rates on gains made from rental properties. These changes aim to discourage speculative property investment and encourage long-term, sustainable investments.

Despite these challenges, there are still opportunities for investors in 2025. For example, some investors are turning to commercial property or diversifying their portfolios into real estate investment trusts (REITs) as alternatives to traditional residential lettings. Others are focusing on energy-efficient properties to take advantage of government incentives and higher rental yields.

In conclusion, while the changing tax landscape poses challenges, property investors who adapt their strategies and stay informed can still find profitable opportunities in 2025.

In 2025, the UK student housing market is undergoing significant transformations as shifting student demographics, changing educational models, and evolving lifestyle preferences influence the demand for accommodation. For investors and developers, understanding these changes is crucial to capitalising on new opportunities in the student housing sector.

One of the most notable trends is the growing demand for purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) that offers more than just a place to sleep. Students today are looking for spaces that combine convenience, community, and flexibility. This means that modern student housing is increasingly being designed to provide not only a comfortable living space but also communal areas, study facilities, and social spaces. Developers are responding by integrating co-living concepts and tech-driven amenities, such as high-speed internet and digital booking systems for communal spaces, to attract the next generation of tenants.

Another significant change is the rise of hybrid learning models, which have emerged as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. With more universities offering flexible, online, or part-time study options, some students are choosing to live further from campus or even in smaller, more affordable towns and cities. This shift could lead to changes in demand for student housing in traditionally high-demand areas like London or Edinburgh, as students seek lower-cost options in less urbanised locations.

Additionally, sustainability is playing a larger role in student housing developments. Many students are prioritising eco-friendly living spaces that feature energy-efficient designs and sustainable materials. In response, developers are incorporating green building practices, such as energy-efficient appliances, waste-reduction systems, and sustainable construction methods, to appeal to the environmentally-conscious student population.

For investors, these changes mean the student housing market will require more adaptable and diversified offerings. With the growing demand for high-quality, flexible living spaces, those who can innovate and meet the evolving needs of students will find profitable opportunities in 2025 and beyond.

In conclusion, while the student housing sector faces challenges in the form of shifting demands and new trends, those who adapt to these changes can capitalise on an evolving market, providing students with the homes they need while reaping financial rewards.

The UK rental market is experiencing a shift towards long-term lettings, as more renters are opting to stay in their properties for longer periods. In 2025, the trend towards longer tenancies is expected to continue, driven by several factors including economic uncertainty, changing lifestyle preferences, and evolving rental market dynamics.

One of the main drivers of this trend is the rising cost of living and the difficulty of securing a new rental property. With rent prices continuing to rise in many areas, many renters are finding it more economical to stay in their current homes rather than face the uncertainty of moving to a more expensive property. Long-term tenancies offer renters stability and security, which is particularly important in times of economic volatility.

Additionally, the growing popularity of hybrid working is influencing the demand for long-term rentals. Many renters are now looking for stable, long-term living arrangements that allow them to work from home comfortably. Properties that offer space for home offices or adaptable living areas are particularly sought after in the long-term rental market.

For landlords, the rise of long-term tenancies offers several benefits, including reduced vacancy rates, lower tenant turnover, and a more predictable rental income stream. Many landlords are now offering longer leases and more flexible rental terms to attract tenants who want stability.

In conclusion, the trend towards long-term lettings is set to continue in 2025, as renters seek security and stability in a fluctuating market. Landlords who offer flexible terms and adapt to the growing demand for long-term rentals will be well-positioned to succeed in the evolving rental market.