The Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) has got its phone lines and emails back up and running but was last night still waiting to assess the damage of a fire that ravaged its premises on Wednesday afternoon.

A spokesman said its phone lines and emails were down from 4.30pm on Wednesday to 2pm yesterday but issues could still be lodged online.

TDS staff are unable to return to the site, which has been kept under the control of the fire service.

The TDS said on Twitter: “Our business continuity plan has been activated and is progressing successfully.

“All deposit protection services via our websites remain unaffected and we have now opened our phone lines.

“All deposits remain fully protected, and data is safe.”

A later statement added: “Following the major fire at TDS’ Hemel Hempstead headquarters on Wednesday afternoon, the company implemented its business continuity plan with its customer service teams responding to calls from 2pm on Thursday.

“TDS’ email service is now fully back up and running as well. TDS staff are working from a number of local sites to support customers.”

Huge Fire in Commerical offices near ours on Mark Road in Hemel Hempstead today. Hope everyone’s ok. #HemelHempstead pic.twitter.com/fezMRL1kiU

— Paul Warren (@PaulWarrenPrint) January 9, 2019