How To Be An Ethical Landlord
Generally speaking, landlords get a bad rap. Many individuals have encountered unscrupulous and dishonest landlords who neglected their duty to conduct repairs, issued eviction threats without proper notice, or acted inappropriately in various ways.
Suppose you've recently purchased a property with the intention of renting it out. In that case, you may find yourself wondering how you can provide your tenants with optimal living conditions and a positive experience with you as the proprietor. Read on to learn how to let your property while prioritising fairness and respect for your tenants.
Perform Repairs Promptly
Nobody wants to be stuck in an unsuitable property with leaks, faulty wiring or structural damage. Not only can these issues be unsightly, but they can also pose significant risks to your tenants’ safety. As such, when taking on the responsibility of being a landlord, it is vital that you maintain a commitment to keeping the property in excellent condition and adhering to safety standards. This involves performing repairs within a reasonable time frame, depending on the severity and complexity of the issue. You can find a list of repairs and maintenance work you, as the property owner, are responsible for on the official Citizens Advice website.
Address Unconscious Biases
To ensure fair and ethical treatment of your tenants, you may need to address your unconscious biases. An unconscious bias is a prejudice or stereotype against a specific group of people. Although we may not be aware of these prejudices, they can significantly impact our actions and decisions. Begin by acknowledging that unconscious bias exists and that everyone may have some level of bias, regardless of how progressive and accepting they strive to be. Examine your rental policies and criteria to ensure they are fair, reasonable, and don't inadvertently discriminate against any particular group or community.
Demonstrate Transparency
Transparency in terms of your tenancy contracts is a fundamental aspect of being an ethical landlord. By being open and forthright in all lease agreements, you can establish a foundation of trust and fairness with your tenants. This means taking the time to ensure all documentation is clear and comprehensive, outlining all terms and conditions and leaving no room for confusion or ambiguity. This level of transparency fosters trust and honesty between you and your tenants.
Respect Privacy
Respecting tenants' privacy is a cornerstone of ethical landlord practices. While you have a right to check on your property, dropping by unannounced is widely considered to be inappropriate. It is crucial that you give your tenants at least 24 hours notice of an unscheduled inspection - ideally in writing, via email, so there is evidence of notice. Above all, avoid intruding on your tenants’ personal space without a valid reason, except in cases of emergencies. As a landlord, it is your responsibility to provide your tenants with a safe and secure home, and disrespecting their privacy will violate their right to live peacefully.
Reasonable Rent
Due to the ever-rising cost of living and soaring energy prices, rent increases are prevalent throughout the country. Of course, as per your buy to let mortgage, you will need a reasonable rental income. However, in the interest of fairness and ethics, the rent you charge must be in line with the current market conditions as well as the condition of the property itself. Avoid putting profit ahead of people and calculate your rates fairly.
Comply With Laws And Regulations
Along with being an ethical landlord, compliance with the law and housing regulations is crucial. This includes adhering to safety and habitability standards to provide a secure and comfortable living environment for occupants. Not only should your property be in good condition, but conducting regular safety inspections and obtaining mandatory certificates, such as a Landlord Gas Safety Record and Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), are imperative for both ethical and legal reasons. Here is some more information about the legal responsibilities of landlords.
Be Accessible And Responsible
Maintaining two-way communication with your tenants is vital for several reasons. By being accessible, your property’s occupants can inform you whenever there is an emergency, such as a water leak or heating malfunction. This allows you to take swift action to resolve the problem, ensuring the well-being of your tenants and the condition of your property. Moreover, being responsive and accessible builds trust between you and your tenants, contributing to a positive experience for all involved.