Better safe than sorry: avoid these common landlord mistakes

Avoid these common landlord mistakes

Even experienced landlords can slip up. But mistakes can be expensive. How do you keep your ducks in a row? Here’s how to avoid the most common landlord mistakes.

Do the checks and skip the regret.

It's tempting to rush a tenant in. The quicker they move, the quicker you get income. But not carrying out checks is a recipe for disaster. Failing to vet tenants thoroughly can lead to arrears, damage and ongoing headaches.

All tenants should be checked for credit history, employment, income and previous rental references (if applicable).

Comply with compliance.

Gas safety. Electrical reports. EPCs. Miss one, and you’re not compliant. Miss more, and you may face fines and lost income.

Keep an organised checklist, book next year’s checks before this year’s expire, and track every certificate. You can also remove the hassle and let a property manager keep you protected. Our ARLA-qualified team stay on top of 150+ legal requirements.

Remember each penny counts.

Letting a property is lucrative, but it's not without its costs. From renovations and routine maintenance to tradespeople and property taxes.

A general checklist could include:

• Stamp Duty Land Tax (including 3% surcharge on second properties)
• Mortgage deposit & arrangement fees
• Survey fees
• Conveyancing & legal costs
• Letting agent and property management fees
• Landlord insurance (buildings, contents, rent guarantee, liability)
• Routine maintenance & emergency repairs
• Safety checks (Gas Safety Certificate, EICR, EPC renewals)
• Service charges & ground rent (if leasehold)
• Council tax (during void periods)
• Utility bills (if not tenant-paid, or during voids)
• Accountancy & tax return fees
• Renovations & refurbishments
• Licensing fees (HMO licence or selective licensing)

You'll also want to budget for possible void periods. Set out a clear finance spreadsheet to skip unwanted surprises.

Don't neglect to inspect.

Routine inspections spot maintenance issues before they become expensive repairs. They show how tenants are caring for your property and provide space to raise issues.

Make inspections a routine and not a surprise. Give at least 24 hours' notice and pick a reasonable time. Speak with your tenant to see when an inspection is convenient.

Our inspections and inventory reports help you stay efficient. A full-proof way to prevent landlord mistakes.

Delay the fix. Double the bill.

A broken seal can lead to a full window replacement. Cracks, leaks and drips don't stay small. Fix issues early to protect your property and keep tenants happy. If you're providing appliances and furniture, every item must be safe and in good working order. Spell out exactly what's included.

Our maintenance team partner with The Property Maintenance People. They provide vetted tradespeople with a 24/7 emergency line for tenants to use.

Too high or too low. Mind the rent gap.

Price too high and your property can sit empty. Too low and you'll miss out on income. The sweet spot isn't guesswork. It's data, demand and local knowledge.

Our agents know what similar properties are achieving, how many applicants are chasing listings, and what features tenants will pay more for. We'll recommend a price that maximises returns and keeps voids to a minimum.

Common landlord mistake: DIY Shortcuts

DIY cuts costs. But at what price? A missed safety check can cost thousands in fines. A poorly vetted tenant can lead to months without rent. Handling maintenance yourself could mean late-night callouts.

With over 100 regulations, compliant deadlines and tenant management, the risk of doing everything yourself can outweigh the savings. Property managers can look after your property when you’re away and oversee rent, inspections and compliance.

Find out more about our service levels here.