Tenant Expectations are Increasing. What Can Landlords Do To Meet Them?
By Maurice Shasha | Created on 5th February 2018
This article looks at what landlords can do to meet the growing expectations of their tenants.
Tenants are expecting a lot more from their rental accommodation these days. This has led to a general improvement in the quality of rental stock available, as landlords know they need to make sure their properties have the edge over similar properties in the area.
Every landlord knows how important it is to secure good tenants and to keep those tenants happy. From making sure the property is as energy efficient as possible to acting quickly should any maintenance issues arise, there are many things a landlord can do to meet the higher expectations of tenants.
Energy efficiency
As of April 2018, private rented sector landlords will not be able to let out a property if that property does not achieve an EPC rating of Band ‘E’ or above. This will apply to new tenancies and renewals. However, it will also apply to existing tenancies from April 2020 onwards. At present, tenants have the power to request that their landlord improves the energy efficiency of the rental property if it falls below Band ‘E’ in efficiency.
Tenants realise how important it is to rent an energy efficient property – the more efficient the property, the lower the energy bills. Tenants are attracted by the prospect of double-glazing, as this implies a warmer property and a reduced chance of mould, condensation or damp. Double-glazing also helps to insulate the property while reducing noise levels in the home.
When a property for rent is marketed, its energy efficiency rating must be published and made known to potential tenants. It is therefore in a landlord’s best interests to make sure their rental properties are as energy efficient as possible, thereby making the property more appealing to tenants and reducing void periods.
Good quality fixtures and fittings
Fixtures and fittings, whether in the bathroom or kitchen, should be of good quality and fit for purpose. This doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune, just keep things simple, and make sure you choose fixtures and fittings which also enhance the aesthetic appeal of the house.
Modern kitchen and bathroom
Never underestimate the appeal of a modern, streamlined kitchen and bathroom. Generally considered to be the two most important rooms, tenants in London in particular, who can expect to be paying a higher rent, now expect a new kitchen and bathroom, or at least make improvements to ensure they both look at their best when prospective tenants view the property.
Reliable Wi-Fi connection
It’s not only students who need to have access to reliable and fast Wi-Fi. We’re all online these days, and most tenants will expect a reliable internet connection as standard. A property that doesn’t have a reliable Wi-Fi connection will likely not encourage the tenant to stay long-term.
Fast communication
As well as fast broadband, a proactive landlord who reacts quickly when something goes wrong is expected by tenants, and rightly so. Landlords must make sure they meet their tenant’s expectations by always responding and acting quickly should a landlord report a problem. For landlords who don’t want to be the first point of contact in an emergency, make sure you appoint a letting agent to take on the role.
If you’re planning to let out your property in Knightsbridge, Paddington, Marble Arch or other part of central London, contact our lettings team today.
Looking to Sell or Let?
Begin your journey with a free property valuation.
Get the facts and figures to make informed decisions.
Property Valuation
"*" indicates required fields
Got a question?
If you want to know more contact us,
and we’ll be happy to help you.
Contact Us
"*" indicates required fields
Share
Maurice Shasha
The Property Industry has always and continues to interest me, and after joining Plaza Estates in 2008 I have experienced a market which has taught me alot. In my role advising clients on their purchases (together with our sales teams), managing the refurbishments for them (together with our management and design team), preparing the property for rentals (together with our rentals teams) or sales and being responsible for the Companies digital marketing I have seen the market from various aspects. The market is always changing and it is essential we constantly adapt, which since Plaza Estates was established in 1972 is something the company has always done. We pride ourselves in the personal relationship and service we have and give all our clients and being part of a company which is "big enough to cope and small enough to care" is something I really enjoy.
If you want 5-star reviews and want to remove negative reviews from Google, contact me via my profile; my contact details are listed there.
SM
Dear Eitan
In this whole sorry saga, with headbutting, unproactive lawyers, and a comatose estate agent etc etc, you have been a beacon of light throughout. Efficient, professional and responsive. This would never have got done without you.
Thank you.
All the best.
Maurice Shasha
We have been using Plaza Estates for many years for all our property requirements (sales, letting and management) and are delighted with the results and service they constantly deliver and provide!
KS
I generally dealt with the Marble Arch branch most of the time, but I can also say that the Knightsbridge office was also exceptionally helpful and professional on the occasions I did deal with them. Plaza Estates in general are excellent.
YZ
Have interacted with Plaza Estates across a couple of sites and always been impressed. Maurice must be the hardest working, most dedicated, helpful and knowledgeable account manager for any company anywhere! A real asset to the team!
LI
I have been a client of Plaza Estates for over 30 years and received excellent service. Both Rodney on the rental side and Fiona in the property management area have been have been attentive and helpful and always willing to go the extra mile on the few occasions when there were problems.
SA
Hope both of you are doing well. I wanted to thank you for always being there for us and for addressing our concerns promptly; safe to say you have been the best agents I have had the pleasure of interacting with.
KR
We have owned our Flat since 2008, which we purchased through Plaza. Our relationship with Plaza goes back to 1982 when we purchased a nearby flat and Plaza have handled all our lettings since then. I would have no hesitation in recommending Plaza - they will find you a good tenant and ensure your ...
MS
Thank you again for all your advice and calm attitude and charm. Nobody could try harder than you, and for which, we really thank you and appreciate it all, not just now, but over the years.
Thanks again for everything!
