[lukerichy]

Bit of advise needed what is the difference between a deposit and a booking fee. Been on websites looking for accomodation for 2012-2013 some place say booking fee and some say deposits what is the difference? and does it mean you get it bac or not? Help please confused.com lol

[accomoffice]

(Original post by lukerichy)
Bit of advise needed what is the difference between a deposit and a booking fee. Been on websites looking for accomodation for 2012-2013 some place say booking fee and some say deposits what is the difference? and does it mean you get it bac or not? Help please confused.com lol

You wouldn't normally get a booking fee back. It's a one-off fee that you pay for actually making the booking (and I guess the idea is that it covers the landlords/agents costs for things like checking references/preparing the agreement etc.)
A deposit can either be a holding deposit which may then be refunded to you in the last months rent or, more usually, a damage deposit which will be refunded to you once the tenancy has ended as long as there's no damage and your rent is up to date etc. Most usually a holding deposit that you put down to secure the room will then turn into a damage deposit once you move in.
A damage deposit must be protected under law (if you have an assured shorthold tenancy which is what nearly all private sector tenancies are). Google "tenancy deposit scheme" to find out more details about what the landlord has to do.

[lukerichy]

Thank you for your help