By not protecting the deposit within 30 days of receiving the money your landlord has failed to comply with the Housing Act. The 30 day limit is absolute and as a consequence a court should order the landlord to repay the deposit in full and compensation of between one and three times its value. The deposit money belongs to you, even when held by the landlord. He can only withhold money with your agreement, or when instructed by a court or a tenancy deposit scheme (not applicable in this case because your money has not been protected with a scheme). Based on the information you have given it is difficult to see why you would not be awarded the deposit plus compensation. However please seek legal advice to go through your situation in detail and confirm what you should do, you may want to start by going to your local Citizens Advice.