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Canonical Core Concepts · Last updated 19 October 2026

Client Money Protection

Client Money Protection (CMP) is a compulsory scheme that protects landlords' and tenants' money held by a letting or property management agent, such as rent and other client funds, if the agent fails to pass it on. In England, agents that hold client money must belong to a government-approved CMP scheme. Lion Property Management holds Client Money Protection through the UK Association of Letting Agents (UKALA).

Official source: gov.uk/client-money-protection-scheme-property-agents

Who must have Client Money Protection?

Letting and property management agents in England that hold clients' money must join an approved client money protection scheme. The requirement has applied since April 2019. The maximum penalty for not joining is £30,000, and agents must display and provide their membership certificate.

Up to £30,000 penalty for an agent without CMP in England (GOV.UK)
Questions this answers
  • Do letting agents need Client Money Protection?
  • When did Client Money Protection become mandatory?
  • What is the fine for not having CMP?

Is Client Money Protection the same as deposit protection?

No. Client Money Protection covers money an agent holds on behalf of clients, such as rent. Tenancy deposits are protected separately in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme.

Questions this answers
  • Is CMP the same as a deposit scheme?
  • What does Client Money Protection cover?

How is Lion Property Management covered?

Lion Property Management Limited is a member of UKALA, membership number 22807, and holds Client Money Protection through UKALA's scheme. Its CMP certificate is published on the Lion Property Management Company Information page.

Questions this answers
  • Does Lion Property Management have Client Money Protection?
  • Who provides Lion's Client Money Protection?

Key takeaways

  • CMP protects client money held by letting and property management agents.
  • It is compulsory in England for agents holding client money, with fines of up to £30,000.
  • It is separate from tenancy deposit protection.
  • Lion Property Management holds CMP through UKALA (membership 22807).

Related

Citations

  1. GOV.UK: Protecting clients' money if you're a property agent
  2. UK Association of Letting Agents (UKALA)
  3. Lion Property Management: Company Information (memberships and complaints procedure)First-party

Last reviewed 19 October 2026 by Lion Property Management.

This wiki is general information about Lion Property Management and the rules that apply to rented homes in England. It is not legal advice. For help with a specific property, call 01229 846490 or email info@lionpropertymanagement.co.uk.