7 Ways Cardiff Landlords Can Build a Positive Landlord-Tenant Relationship

As a landlord in Cardiff, letting your property to new tenants can sometimes feel daunting. Will they look after your home? Will rent be paid on time? And will they want to stay long-term?

The truth is, a successful tenancy comes down to one thing: the landlord-tenant relationship. A positive and professional relationship encourages tenants to treat the property with respect, remain happy in their home, and renew their tenancy when the contract ends.

At RedKey Lettings and Property Management, based in Fairwater, Cardiff, we’ve helped hundreds of local landlords create stronger, longer-lasting tenancies. Here are seven proven ways to build the best possible relationship with your tenants.

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1. Communicate Clearly from the Start

Before tenants move in, set expectations clearly. Discuss house rules, the process for reporting maintenance issues, and policies on redecorating or keeping pets.

Open, honest communication at the start of a tenancy prevents misunderstandings later on. Remember, tenants are more likely to cooperate if they feel informed and respected.

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2. Provide Reliable Contact Details

Tenants need reassurance that if something goes wrong, they can contact someone who will act quickly. Always give your tenants your up-to-date contact details, along with the number of a trusted backup (such as your letting agent or property manager) if you’re unavailable.

This simple step builds confidence and trust right from the beginning.

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3. Leave a Tenant Handbook

Moving into a new property can be overwhelming – especially for tenants new to the Cardiff area. A simple tenant handbook can make the transition smoother.

Include:

• Instructions for using heating, appliances, and hot water systems.

• Refuse collection days and recycling information.

• Local amenities such as supermarkets, bus routes, GPs, and dentists.

Providing this guide not only helps tenants settle in but also reduces the number of small queries you may otherwise receive.

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4. Respond Quickly to Issues

Nothing undermines a landlord-tenant relationship faster than ignoring repair requests. If tenants raise a maintenance issue, deal with it as quickly as possible.

By arranging repairs promptly, you show tenants that you care about their well-being and the condition of your property. This proactive approach reassures tenants and encourages them to take better care of the property in return.

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5. Be Flexible with Good Tenants

Finding reliable tenants is worth its weight in gold. If they request small changes that could help them stay longer – such as a minor repair, the option to redecorate, or the flexibility of keeping a pet – consider being accommodating.

A little flexibility can go a long way in securing a long-term tenancy, saving you the time and cost of finding new tenants.

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6. Offer Longer Tenancies

Tenant demand in Cardiff continues to rise, and many renters want the security of longer tenancy agreements.

For landlords, offering longer contracts means:

• Fewer void periods.

• Reduced marketing and re-letting costs.

• More predictable rental income.

When you find tenants who are reliable and happy in your property, offering them the option of a longer tenancy is often a win-win situation.

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7. Work with a Professional Property Management Company

The best way to foster positive landlord-tenant relationships – without the stress – is to use an experienced local property management company.

At RedKey Lettings and Property Management, we take care of everything for landlords across Cardiff and particularly in Fairwater, Canton, and Llandaff. From tenancy agreements and deposit protection to rent collection, compliance, and emergency repairs, our team ensures your tenants feel supported while your property is looked after.

Using a local independent letting agent means you get a personal, tailored service – and your tenants benefit from having a reliable, approachable point of contact.

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Frequently Asked Questions from Cardiff Landlords

1. How can I screen tenants effectively?
Thorough referencing is essential – including credit checks, employment verification, and references from previous landlords. At RedKey, we carry out full tenant screening to help landlords in Cardiff secure reliable, long-term renters.

2. What are my legal obligations as a landlord in Cardiff?
Landlords must meet safety standards, provide an EPC, protect deposits in a government-approved scheme, and comply with Right to Rent checks. Working with RedKey ensures you remain fully compliant with local and national regulations.

3. How should I handle maintenance and repairs?
Tenants should have a clear way to report issues. At RedKey, we manage repairs through our trusted network of contractors, ensuring problems are resolved quickly and professionally.

4. Should I offer a longer tenancy agreement?
Yes – it reduces turnover, provides predictable income, and appeals to tenants looking for security. Many Cardiff tenants actively seek longer-term rentals.

5. When should I involve a property management company?
If you lack the time, own multiple properties, or want expert support with compliance, maintenance, and tenant care, using a property management company like RedKey can save time, reduce stress, and improve returns.

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Final Thoughts

A strong landlord-tenant relationship benefits everyone – your tenants feel secure and respected, while you enjoy fewer void periods, less stress, and stronger rental income.

At RedKey Lettings and Property Management, we specialise in supporting landlords in Fairwater and across Cardiff with expert lettings and property management services. Whether you need help finding great tenants or want full property management, our local team is here to help.

📞 Call us today on 02920 090690
📧 Email hello@redkeylets.co.uk 
🌐 Visit www.redkeylets.co.uk/valuation 

RedKey is Cardiff’s trusted independent letting agent, here to help landlords build positive tenant relationships and make the most of their rental properties.