May 13, 2026

The most common tenant complaints and how to avoid them

It has never been more important to keep tenants in your property for the long term. That means dealing with complaints promptly and creating a healthy landlord-tenant relationship which can last for years.

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But what’s the best way to do that? We’ve gathered some of the most common tenant complaints and provided solutions to help landlords navigate the modern rental relationship.

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Slow repairs and lack of maintenance

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The number one complaint tenants have is around repairs and maintenance. They are paying to live in a property, so it makes sense that they expect the property to work as advertised. To avoid problems in this area, we recommend two approaches.

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First, proactive maintenance. Plan to do certain checks every year to ensure the property is in good working order, then have a strategy to undertake any works that may need doing. Second, respond to repair requests promptly. Nothing generates complaints like a repair issue that is being ignored.

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Poor communication with the landlord

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Another common tenant complaint is poor communication with the landlord. Much like the previous point, when you are paying to live somewhere, it is reasonable to expect good service. That doesn’t mean you need to be available 24 hours a day, but you do need to respond within an agreed timeframe.

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A good way to avoid this problem is to agree on service expectations at the beginning of the tenancy so everyone knows where they stand. For example, you could commit to replying to tenant queries within one working day. Doing so means there are no grey areas which could lead to further complaints.

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Unannounced visits from the landlord

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A key part of rental legislation says tenants have the right to quiet enjoyment of their rental home. In practical terms, that means a landlord cannot turn up unannounced and expect to gain entry. While you may own the property, it is your tenant’s home first and foremost if you have signed a rental agreement with them. If you breach this requirement, you will get complaints.

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Avoiding this is simple. If you need to gain access to the property for repairs, maintenance, inspections, viewings or anything else, simply make sure you get written permission from the tenants at least 24 hours before. It’s not enough to send a text message when you are on your way to the property. You need to plan ahead and create a fair, reasonable schedule with your tenant.

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Unsatisfactory administration

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Your tenant is entitled to certain information about the property and the tenancy. In some cases, like with gas and electrical safety certificates, they will want it to ensure the property provides a safe and healthy living environment. In others, like with deposit protection, they will want to know how they are protected.

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In all cases, it’s fair to expect complaints if you don’t provide it on time. The solution is to have a strong record-keeping process. Ensure you keep all paperwork up to date and easily accessible so you are never caught out. If you can always give the information people need – and which you are legally obliged to provide – you will avoid any potential complaints.

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Use a professional lettings and property management agency

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The easiest way to do everything laid out above is to use a professional lettings and property management agency. For a small monthly fee, your agent will deal with all administration, communication, repairs, maintenance and legalities that come with your rental property.

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When it comes to avoiding tenant complaints and building a long-term relationship, having a professional on hand is the smartest single move you can make as a landlord.

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Want to know how we can help you deal with tenant complaints to ensure your tenancy runs smoothly? Contact the team today to find out more.

Arrange a call with our team today.

Contact us today regarding all property management and lettings enquires.

0161 388 7848

contact@northbankresidential.com

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