🚫 Top 10 Mistakes Landlords Make When Renting

Renting out a property should be a steady, profitable experience. Yet for many landlords, small mistakes turn into big, costly problems. At Citizenz Properties LTD, we’ve seen it all — and helped countless landlords turn things around. Here are the top 10 mistakes landlords make when renting — and how you can avoid them.

Cyprian Ahuchaogu

4/29/20252 min read

worm's-eye view photography of concrete building
worm's-eye view photography of concrete building

🚫 Top 10 Mistakes Landlords Make When Renting

Renting out a property should be a steady, profitable experience.
Yet for many landlords, small mistakes turn into big, costly problems.

At Citizenz Properties LTD, we’ve seen it all — and helped countless landlords turn things around.
Here are the top 10 mistakes landlords make when renting — and how you can avoid them.

1. ❌ Poor Tenant Screening

Taking the first applicant without thorough checks is risky.

✅ Always conduct:

  • Credit checks

  • Employment verification

  • References from previous landlords

💬 “The right tenant protects your property and your peace of mind.”

2. ❌ Inadequate Tenancy Agreements

Using a template from the internet or "handshake deals" can cost you dearly.

✅ Get a proper, up-to-date, legally binding tenancy agreement — tailored to your property and situation.

3. ❌ Setting the Wrong Rent Price

Price too high? Your property sits empty.
Price too low? You leave money on the table.

✅ Use real market data — or ask us — to price it competitively.

4. ❌ Neglecting Legal Compliance

There are over 170+ landlord regulations in the UK.

✅ Ensure:

  • Gas Safety Certificates

  • EICR (Electrical safety)

  • Right to Rent checks

  • Deposit protection

  • EPC ratings meet requirements

5. ❌ Poor Maintenance and Repairs

Ignoring small issues leads to bigger, more expensive problems — and unhappy tenants.

✅ Respond promptly to maintenance requests and schedule regular inspections.

6. ❌ Weak Property Presentation

Tenants judge online listings fast.

✅ Present your property with:

  • High-quality photos

  • Clean, staged spaces

  • Highlighted key features (garden, parking, office space)

7. ❌ Not Vetting Guarantors

If a guarantor is involved, don’t skip due diligence!

✅ Verify their employment, income, and ability to cover the rent if needed.

8. ❌ Lack of Communication

Unclear or delayed communication frustrates tenants and increases turnover.

✅ Set clear expectations and be responsive — or use an agent who handles it for you.

9. ❌ Mishandling Deposits

Failing to protect a deposit correctly can lead to fines of up to 3x the deposit amount.

✅ Always use a government-approved scheme (DPS, TDS, or MyDeposits) and issue the prescribed information.

10. ❌ Managing Everything Alone

Trying to DIY your rental without enough time or expertise can lead to stress and lost income.

✅ Work with a trusted, professional agency (like us!) to maximise returns and minimise risk.

📞 Avoid Costly Mistakes — Speak to the Experts

At Citizenz Properties LTD, we help landlords manage smarter, earn more, and avoid legal traps.

📲 Avoid costly mistakes — speak to us today at 07496 802724.
Text or WhatsApp us now to protect your investment and boost your results.