Becoming a landlord can be a profitable venture, but managing a property comes with far more responsibility than many new landlords realise. From staying compliant with legislation to maintaining good tenant relationships, successful property management is about more than just collecting rent. At Christopher Anthony Property Management Experts, we specialise in helping landlords across the South East manage their properties efficiently, compliantly, and profitably. If you’re new to the sector or looking to avoid common errors, here are 11 landlord mistakes to steer clear of, plus how our expert property management services can help.
1. Skipping Proper Tenant Checks
Letting a property to the wrong tenant is one of the most costly mistakes a landlord can make. Without thorough referencing, credit checks, and affordability assessments, you risk rent arrears, property damage, or lengthy disputes.
Our approach: We carry out detailed referencing, credit checks, and in-person reviews to help secure reliable tenants from the start.
2. Overlooking Legal & Tax Responsibilities
From Making Tax Digital (coming in April 2026) to Awaab’s Law and the Renters’ Rights Bill, the rules for landlords are tightening. Failing to comply can result in substantial fines or even legal action.
We stay ahead: Our property management service ensures you’re fully compliant, handling all admin and updates so you don’t have to worry.
3. Using Weak or Outdated Tenancy Agreements
Verbal agreements or downloaded templates can leave you legally exposed. A strong tenancy agreement must clearly set out rent terms, responsibilities, and notice periods.
We provide: Legally sound, up-to-date tenancy agreements tailored to your property and aligned with current legislation.
4. Not Protecting the Deposit
You’re legally required to register the deposit in a government-approved scheme within 30 days. Failure to do so can invalidate notices and result in fines.
We take care of it: All deposits are registered correctly, and tenants are issued the required documents on time.
5. Getting the Rent Price Wrong
Many new landlords either overestimate or undervalue their property. The result? Voids or lost income.
We get it right: With our local expertise and market data, we accurately value your property to ensure maximum return and minimal downtime.
6. Failing to Document an Inventory
A detailed inventory is essential to avoid disputes at the end of a tenancy. Without one, you may struggle to claim damages.
Our solution: We create detailed, photo-supported inventories at check-in and check-out for your protection.
7. Underestimating Maintenance Costs
Ignoring small maintenance issues can lead to bigger, more expensive problems.
We act fast: Regular inspections and reliable local contractors help us stay on top of maintenance and reduce long-term costs.
8. Poor Presentation
A property that looks tired or neglected will be harder to let and attract lower rent.
Our tip: A fresh coat of paint, clean carpets, and a tidy garden can go a long way. We’ll advise on quick fixes that add value.
9. Neglecting Energy Efficiency
With EPC rules tightening and energy bills rising, tenants are prioritising efficient homes.
Our advice: We guide you on improvements, like better insulation or energy-saving boilers, to meet new standards and attract tenants.
10. Failing to Budget for Void Periods
No property is let 100% of the time. Failing to plan for this can impact your cash flow.
We help reduce voids: With strategic marketing and proactive tenant sourcing, we keep your property occupied and your income steady.
11. Not Providing Essential Appliances
Avoiding appliances to reduce liability can backfire. Many tenants expect white goods as standard.
Our recommendation: Offer clean, working appliances and clearly list them in the tenancy agreement to avoid confusion or complaints.
Being a landlord doesn’t have to be stressful. With expert property management from Christopher Anthony, you can protect your investment, stay compliant, and save time.
From legal paperwork and inspections to tenant sourcing and ongoing maintenance, we handle it all, so you don’t have to.
