One of the biggest difficulties for landlords is finding themselves faced with problem tenants, especially when they’re not paying rent and refuse to move.

With the case of Thanos Papalexis in the news (an example of how not to deal with a problem tenant), here are five useful tips for avoiding tenant problems.

1. Use a property management or lettings company

Although you may be tempted to go it alone and avoid the extra cost of using a professional property management or lettings company, they do have their advantages. They’re especially useful to have on board if problems occur, and if you’re new to letting out properties, as they should be up-to-date and experienced with dealing with problem tenants.

2. Credit check your tenants

Either you, or your letting agent, should carry out credit checks of your prospective tenant. There are various credit reference agencies available to use and this will highlight any debt issues or any previous County Court judgements against them.

If they don’t have good credit references, or if you discover they don’t have a bank account, then avoid renting your property to them.

3. Check tenant references

When you’re first letting out your property, it’s crucial that a range of references for your tenant are thoroughly checked out. This includes their employment references, so you can check their current and past jobs, and their personal references, for example from a previous landlord, so you can find out about their tenant track record.

4. Sort out maintenance problems quickly

Some tenant problems can occur due to landlords not fixing problems soon enough, and tenants then getting stroppy about not paying rent until things are put right.

So, if any maintenance issues arise with the property, ensure they’re fixed and sorted out quickly (if you’re using a management company, then they should have established contacts with maintenance workers).

5. Carry out regular landlord visits or property checks

Regular landlord property checks can highlight potential problems in advance and give you time to sort them out before further issues occur. Do remember to give your tenants notice if you’re going to be calling around (negotiate a convenient day and set time), as unexpected visits will not go down well.

Source: David Coughlin – HBF Investments