News from 23 June 2026
Homelet PMS Ltd paid a £15,000 civil penalty following enforcement by Medway Council over client money protection, according to Property Industry Eye. The report said a council inspection found the agency was not a scheme member while holding client money.
What to check with an agent
A sensible starting point is to ask the agent which approved client money protection scheme it belongs to, and to keep a copy of the current certificate or membership evidence. Landlords can also check whether the membership details match the exact trading name, company name or branch they are dealing with.
It is also worth checking the agency agreement for how client money is handled. That includes when rent is passed on, how deductions are authorised, what happens to maintenance funds, and what records the agent will provide. Clear statements, itemised deductions and prompt remittance reports make it easier to spot issues early.
Where an agent manages deposits, landlords should also keep deposit protection records in order and understand who is responsible for prescribed information and scheme deadlines. Client money protection and tenancy deposit protection are different safeguards, and one does not replace the other.
Landlords who are reviewing agent arrangements may find it useful to read our earlier note on checks before appointing an agent, which covers wider red flags around professional membership and complaints routes.
Choosing an agent
Before appointing an agent, ask which redress scheme they belong to and, where they hold client money, which client money protection scheme they use. Agree when you will receive rent statements and how repairs or complaints will be handled.
