Finding a good tenant is one thing — keeping them is another.
As any landlord will tell you, a reliable, respectful tenant who pays on time and looks after your property is worth their weight in gold. In today’s rental market, where demand remains strong but expectations are higher than ever, retaining great tenants is key to long-term success (and peace of mind!).
At James Gorey Estate Agents, we manage hundreds of local tenancies across Abbey Wood, Sidcup, Dartford and beyond — and we’ve seen first-hand what separates landlords who enjoy steady, hassle-free returns from those who face constant turnover and void periods.
Here are our top tips to keep your tenants happy — and your investment performing at its best.
1. Treat it like a partnership, not a transaction
A tenancy works best when there’s mutual respect. Responding quickly to queries, staying polite and reasonable, and showing appreciation for tenants who look after your property all go a long way.
A short thank-you note after a smooth renewal or prompt payment might seem small — but tenants remember it.
2. Stay on top of maintenance
Most tenants don’t expect perfection — but they do expect landlords to act swiftly when something goes wrong.
A leaky tap left too long or a faulty heater can easily sour the relationship. Fixing issues promptly not only keeps tenants comfortable but also prevents small problems from turning into costly repairs later.
(If you use our management service, we’ll handle all of this for you — from the first call to arranging trusted local contractors.)
3. Keep the rent fair
We know it’s tempting to raise the rent at every renewal, especially when market values increase. But a long-term, reliable tenant who pays on time is often worth more than squeezing out an extra £25 a month.
Fair, transparent rent reviews encourage tenants to stay put — which means fewer voids, less admin, and less wear-and-tear from constant changeovers.
4. Respect their space
Once tenants move in, it’s their home — and that’s how it should feel.
Avoid unnecessary inspections and always give plenty of notice before visits. The more comfortable they feel, the more likely they are to renew and take good care of the property.
5. Offer renewal early
Don’t leave renewals until the last minute. Reaching out two or three months before a tenancy ends gives tenants security — and gives you time to plan ahead.
It’s also a great opportunity to check in, discuss any maintenance or upgrades, and keep the relationship strong.
6. Keep communication open
Encourage tenants to report issues early and honestly. A simple “How’s everything going?” message every few months can make tenants feel looked after — and might uncover something small before it becomes a problem.
7. Keep the property fresh
A small refresh between tenancies (or even during longer ones) makes a big difference. Repainting walls, replacing tired appliances, or updating flooring shows you care about the property — and that pride often rubs off on tenants too.
In summary
Happy tenants stay longer, look after your property better, and make your life easier.
Being responsive, fair, and proactive doesn’t just create goodwill — it builds profit.
If you’re a landlord in Abbey Wood, Sidcup, Dartford or the surrounding areas, and you’d like help managing your property or finding quality tenants, get in touch with the team at James Gorey Estate Agents.
We’ll make sure your property (and your tenants) are in good hands.