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Vast majority of landlords have a good relationship with their tenants

More than two thirds of private landlords have a good relationship with their tenants, according to the latest poll.

A total of 69% of respondents said that they get on well with those renting their properties, while 33% believe that they are good friends with their tenants, fresh research by landlord insurer Direct Line for Business shows.

Some 15% of landlords have no interaction at all, as all communication is handled by a management or lettings agent, while just 2% said they have a poor relationship with their renters.

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Christina Dimitrov, business manager at Direct Line for Business, said: “The idea that landlords and tenants can’t get on is a fallacy, as many of these relationships are very positive and are often long lasting.

“Having a good relationship with your tenants is beneficial as they will be more likely to flag problems with the property quickly, enabling the landlord to arrange for a swift repair and therefore minimising inconvenience and expense for both parties.”

More than a quarter - 27% - of landlords surveyed said that they are very confident there would be no void period if their current tenants moved out, meaning they would not lose any rental income.

To help ensure a smooth tenancy, landlords naturally want good tenants, with 58% of respondents naming the number one trait of a good tenant as someone who pays the rent promptly; followed by being respectful of the property and its contents (41%) and being clean and tidy (37%). 

Signing long-term tenancy agreements (11%) and renewing contracts (8%) rank as far less important than the behaviour of a tenant during the rental period, the study found.  

As far as tenants are concerned, the research reveals that above all else, renters want landlords to respond to issues quickly soon after they arise (69%), request a reasonable rent, never unexpectedly or unfairly raising the rent (52%) and draw up a fair tenancy agreement (37%).

Dimitrov commented: “Overall, the most important quality for landlords and tenants is the ability to be open, honest and fair. Maintaining a good relationship between renter and landlord is vital to a harmonious tenancy.”

Characteristics of a good landlord

Landlord characteristics

Percentage ranking trait as most important

Always responding to issues quickly soon after they arise

69%

Asking for a reasonable rent and never unexpectedly or unfairly raising the rental amount

52%

Drawing up a fair tenancy agreement

37%

Easy to get in touch with

25%

Being a member of an accredited landlord scheme, such as the National Landlord Association or Residential Landlords’ Association

22%

Maintaining a nicely kept property with good furnishings and amenities

21%

Being open to suggestions, such as allowing pets or replacing or upgrading furnishings or amenities

12%

Giving me the freedom to add my own personal touch to the property

9%

Keeping me up-to-date with any changes that may affect me or my lease

8%

Source:  Direct Line for Business 2017

 

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