The Renters’ Rights Act has been a stark reminder of how important it is to nurture tenant relationships. With the end of fixed-term tenancies and the greater power tenants can now wield since May 1, keeping tenants happy has become an even bigger priority.
It requires professional but friendly communication, regular inspections and check-ins to ensure everything is running smoothly and to encourage tenants to report any issues before they develop into major problems.
But what if things aren’t running smoothly? If maintenance issues develop, or if there’s an emergency in the property, then your reaction and the quality of tradespeople that you employ on your behalf will be judged. Nurturing your relationship with your contractors can be as valuable as nurturing the tenant relationship itself.
A job done right first time
A recommended and qualified (where required) contractor, with evidence of high-standard work, ensures that whatever job they have been tasked with is completed right first time. This is especially important when it’s your reputation as a landlord that’s at stake. A tenant’s patience and tolerance will quickly wear thin if they have to repeatedly report the same maintenance issue, simply because the workmanship wasn’t up to scratch.
Failing to fix the issue immediately can also have costly consequences beyond just reputation damage or repeated bills for the same job. An unsolved leak, for example, could cause further damage to your property and waste more of your time managing the situation.
Promoting trust in you as a landlord
A professional approach, with contractors you trust, is also important because they will be representing you, especially if they are going into properties with tenants in situ. Beyond confidence that the problem will be solved, tenants will want assurance that anyone working in the property while they are home is polite, courteous and tidy.
A calming influence in an emergency
A trusted relationship with contractors also means you can be confident that they will respond quickly and calmly on your behalf in an emergency situation, such as a plumbing leak or heating failure. In such situations, not only is time of the essence – meaning a speedy response is vital – but a known and trusted face could also help to reduce tenant stress.
Have a pool of contractors to hand
If you are no good at DIY, having a general handyman on hand will be helpful for small jobs such as fixing a broken doo. But they can’t tackle every job – and neither can you.
You will also need to work with qualified electricians, gas engineers and plumbers. A qualified gas engineer is also required to check your gas appliances in your rental property each year before issuing your Gas Safety Certificate to give to tenants.
Nurturing a wide network of contractors means you cover all potential eventualities, helping to protect your time, money, property and tenant relationships. It also gives you access to their networks, meaning you should never be stuck trying to find someone to help.