1. Failing to Screen Tenants Properly

One of the biggest mistakes self-managing landlords make is rushing the tenant screening process. Filling a vacancy quickly may seem appealing, but accepting the wrong tenant can lead to:

• Late rent payments

• Property damage

• Early lease termination

• Costly eviction proceedings

How to Avoid This

• Conduct full credit and affordability checks

• Verify employment

• Speak to previous landlords

• Use a structured referencing process

A professional property management company in Cardiff or Newport can handle thorough tenant screening, ensuring you secure dependable and responsible tenants from the start.

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2. Underestimating Maintenance Costs

Many landlords underestimate how much they will spend on repairs and upkeep. Whether you’re renting out a home in Cardiff Bay, a flat in Newport city centre, or a terrace in South Wales, maintenance is unavoidable.

Unexpected issues—boiler failures, electrical faults, leaks—can quickly become expensive.

How to Avoid This

Create a dedicated maintenance budget. A common rule is to set aside 1%–2% of your property’s value annually.
Professional property management companies in South Wales typically have reliable contractors, often with negotiated rates that can save landlords money.

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3. Not Understanding Legal Responsibilities

Rental laws in Wales are detailed and frequently updated, especially since the introduction of Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016. Failing to comply can lead to heavy penalties.

This includes laws on:

• Safety certificates

• Written statement of occupation contracts

• Deposits & prescribed information

• Notice periods

• Fitness for human habitation

How to Avoid This

Stay updated with Welsh housing legislation—or let an experienced property management company in Cardiff or Newport ensure you remain compliant at all times.

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4. Setting the Wrong Rental Price

Pricing your rental incorrectly is a common mistake among self-managing landlords in South Wales.

• Too high → long void periods

• Too low → reduced return on investment

Emotional attachment often leads landlords to misjudge their property's true market value.

How to Avoid This

Compare similar rental properties in your area—whether Cardiff, Newport, or broader South Wales.
Letting agents and property managers use real-time market data to set competitive and profitable rental prices.

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5. Neglecting Routine Property Inspections

Skipping inspections allows unnoticed issues to escalate—resulting in expensive repairs.

Inspections should be carried out at:

• Move-in

• Mid-tenancy

• Move-out

How to Avoid This

Conduct inspections regularly to protect your property’s condition.
A Cardiff or Newport property management company will manage inspections for you and document everything professionally.

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6. Poor Communication With Tenants

Good communication is essential for maintaining a positive tenant-landlord relationship. Ignored messages, slow responses, or inconsistent updates can lead to dissatisfied tenants and higher turnover.

How to Avoid This

Provide tenants with:

• A clear method of communication

• Fast responses to repairs

• Professional and polite updates

A property management company becomes the main point of contact, reducing stress for both landlords and tenants.

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7. Mismanaging the Eviction Process

Evictions in Wales must follow strict legal procedures. Many landlords accidentally serve incorrect notice periods or skip required steps, causing delays or even legal consequences.

How to Avoid This

Understand the Renting Homes (Wales) eviction process thoroughly.
If unsure, a property management company in South Wales can handle the process legally and efficiently.

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Is It Time to Hire a Property Management Company in Cardiff, Newport, or South Wales?

If these challenges sound familiar, it may be the right moment to use a professional South Wales property management service.

A reliable property management company can handle:
✔ Tenant screening
✔ Rent collection
✔ Legal compliance
✔ Maintenance & contractors
✔ Routine inspections
✔ Communication with tenants

This reduces stress, saves time, and improves the long-term return on your investment.

For expert property management in Cardiff, Newport, and across South Wales, contact us:
📞 01633 387970
📧 hello@redkeylets.co.uk

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of using a property management company in Cardiff or South Wales?

You gain professional support with tenant screening, maintenance, rent collection, inspections, and full legal compliance under Welsh housing legislation.

How much do property management companies charge?

Typically 8%–12% of the monthly rent, depending on the service level and location (Cardiff, Newport, or wider South Wales).

Can I hire a property manager just for tenant screening?

Yes—many companies offer tenant find or screening-only packages.

How does the eviction process work in Wales?

It includes notice, documentation, court proceedings (if needed), and compliance with the Renting Homes (Wales) Act. A property management company can handle this from start to finish.

Is hiring a property management company expensive?

Most landlords find the cost is outweighed by:

• Reduced stress

• Fewer voids

• Better tenant retention

• Legal compliance

• Faster maintenance handling

How do I choose the right property management company in Cardiff or Newport?

Look for:

• Strong reviews

• Transparent fees

• Local South Wales experience

• Clear communication

• Knowledge of Welsh rental law