Some landlords are better than others.
The best ones will exhibit a few key qualities.
Whether you’re looking for a landlord or are one, read on to learn what makes a good landlord.
1. Meets all their legal obligations
Landlords have legal obligations that need to be met.
Tenants may not always know what these are.
But the best landlords will fulfil these anyway.
Here are just a few examples:
- Tenants’ deposits should be included in a protection scheme
- Properties should have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- Gas and electrical systems are safely installed and maintained
- In Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs), rooms must meet minimum size requirements
- Adheres to all the requirements of the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018.
Tenants rights should also be respected if the landlord decides to sell the property.
The same goes for different types of evictions. Tenants have rights that must be respected – even if they are at fault for the eviction.
2. Clear and consistent communication
The best landlords will always communicate clearly and consistently with tenants.
This avoids misunderstandings and ensures that both parties understand their rights. In Britain, it’s also important to remember that being polite is always necessary!
Landlords should also be transparent and make all of their (relevant) details available to tenants.
3. Builds a friendly relationship
Tenants’ and landlords’ lives are much easier if they have a friendly rapport. In some cases, a friendship may even form.
Approachable and friendly landlords make tenants view their living arrangements more favourably.
This can sometimes translate into favours being done for you further down the line. It’s a win-win.
4. Respects tenants boundaries and wishes
Landlords should not only consider their legal responsibilities.
Ideally, they’ll consider your personal boundaries and wishes as well.
After all, legal and ethical aren’t always the same thing.
This could mean many things. For example, it might mean landlords:
- Being flexible on when they enter the house
- Allowing minor modifications to the property (within reasonable limits, for example: painting it a certain colour)
- Promptly responding to tenant inquiries and concerns
- Choosing higher quality (rather than cheaper) workmen for maintenance tasks.
5. Doesn’t charge hidden costs
Some landlords will try to introduce hidden fees without tenants noticing.
Tenants should carefully check tenant agreements before signing them. If these costs aren’t listed there, tenants have a right to refuse to pay them.
6. Maintains property well
Landlords have a responsibility to maintain their properties.
When tenants report a problem, landlords should not automatically blame issues on tenants.
This is especially true for issues that can be put down to regular wear and tear.
Conversely, tenants must treat the property well. Landlords are also allowed to organise property inspections.
Being organised and maintaining a sinking fund is also useful. This covers the potential for – and reduces the impact of – unexpected disruptions.
7. Available when tenants need them
Availability is crucial for a good landlord. Emergencies will sometimes appear at the last minute.
And it makes tenants’ lives much easier if they’re around. Living in the surrounding area may can be an advantage.
If this isn’t possible, good landlords will have a trusted representative to step in on these occasions.
Typical examples could be:
- A crime being committed
- A pest issue
- Serious damage to the property.
8. Gives tenants freedom
Some landlords can be better by stepping back more.
Showing good faith often creates a better relationship and is a win-win for both parties.
Giving tenants the freedom make minor changes to the contract.
For example, a landlord could be flexible on the tenant having a pet (as long as they are comfortable with it not destroying the property).
Or to temporarily pet sit. Minor decorations are another example. If you respect their space, they’ll hopefully do the same for you.
9. Considers the wider neighbourhood
Landlords are primarily concerned with their own property and tenants. But they should also hold some responsibility for the wider neighbourhood.
A problem tenant, for example, might think their landlord is ‘good’ because they tolerate noisy behaviour. However, this is bad for the wider area.
The same goes for allowing a tenant to have a pet (if the pet is noisy, dangerous, etc.). Or running a business from the property.
A good landlord should be available for neighbours to complain to if their tenants are disruptive.
