Landlords advised to carry out background checks on tenants
Owners of buy-to-let properties could benefit from using property management services to help them select the right tenants.
According to the National Landlords Association (NLA), while most landlords enjoy a good relationship with their tenants, it is still a good idea to carry out background checks on prospective renters.
“The best way to ensure good relations between the tenant and landlord is to ensure the right tenant is selected for the property," said NLA chairman David Salusbury.
"The NLA advises that all landlords should meet with the prospective tenant, view the property together, discuss the tenancy agreement in detail and explain how and when the rent should be paid," he said, adding that landlords can maintain this professional relationship by staying in touch with the tenant and ensuring any repairs are carried out quickly.
"It’s also important to do a background check on a prospective tenant to give landlords peace of mind. Tenant checks can help prevent fraud and any possible rent arrears," he said.
A survey by the NLA found that the vast majority of landlords say they have a positive relationship with tenants.
Of those polled, 61 per cent described tenant relations as 'very good', while a further 34 per cent describe their dealings as 'good'.
Just three per cent said their relationship is 'adequate' while less than one per cent said it is 'poor'.
The survey follows a recent surge in demand for rental properties, spurred by would-be homebuyers priced out of the housing market.
"The NLA believes that the private rented sector will play an important part in helping to meet the demand for quality housing in the coming years. So it is pleasing to see that almost all landlords have a good relationship with their tenants and that both parties are content," said Mr Salusbury.
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