TDS Scheme rules confirm that before an Agent/Landlord make an application to TDS, they must ensure that they have exhausted negotiations with the tenant(s) and the applicant is able to provide evidence that the tenant(s) have disputed the deductions. If an application is received where this is unclear or it is clear the deductions have not been disputed, the application will be rejected. This also extends to scenarios where the tenant is simply unresponsive.
TDS advise the Stakeholder to follow their internal procedures regarding the deposit in these scenarios, further guidance can also be found here.