Third of renters end tenancy due to poor condition of property

One in three renters end their tenancy due to the poor condition of the property they are living in.

This is according to a new survey carried out by shower manufacturer Methven and the National Landlords Association (NLA), which found low quality fixtures and fittings are a major cause of tenant grievances. It also revealed less than ten per cent of respondents were completely happy with the condition of their home.

Close to two-thirds of tenants said the standard of bathrooms in rental properties is normally average or below, while 16 per cent said they are poor. A further 53 per cent claimed a good shower is an essential feature of a home.

The study revealed decor and quality are the most important thing renters look for in a property, with 33 per cent citing it as their top priority. Location is the factor tenants consider second, with 30 per cent highlighting this as important.

NLA chief executive Richard Lambert stated: “In a market where growing numbers of people are renting and renting for longer, tenants expect high standards in both property and management.

“Good landlords will recognise this and ensure their properties are well presented and maintained throughout the duration of a tenancy.”

The survey also revealed tenants take water and energy efficiency into consideration when choosing a place to rent, with nearly three-quarters of respondents saying this is important to them.

Steve Lee, Methven chief executive, commented: “Our survey demonstrates that tenants refuse to put up with below par conditions, but by instigating a relatively small number of improvements and eco-efficient measures, landlords could benefit from the long term financial security of having happy tenants.”

The results of this study will be of interest to the letting sector, as it provides an insight into what influences tenants when choosing a property and by taking this on board, agencies can work to improve their portfolios.

Source: Rentman

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