How to reduce tenant complaints with proactive property maintenance

Every landlord wants reliable, hassle-free tenants. But when maintenance issues crop up—whether it’s a broken boiler or a leaking pipe—those tenants can quickly become frustrated. The good news? Most complaints can be avoided with a little forward planning. 

A proactive approach to property maintenance doesn’t just reduce tenant complaints; it also helps protect your investment, cut down on unexpected costs, and make life easier for everyone involved. Here’s how to stay ahead of problems before they turn into major headaches. 

Most tenant complaints aren’t about major disasters—they’re about everyday issues that, if left unresolved, can cause frustration. Some of the most common maintenance-related problems include: 

• No heating or hot water – One of the biggest frustrations for tenants, especially in the colder months. A boiler breakdown can turn into an urgent issue overnight. 

• Leaking pipes and dripping taps – A small leak might seem harmless at first, but over time it can lead to water damage and even mould. 

• Blocked drains – Slow drainage in kitchens and bathrooms can cause unpleasant odours and inconvenience. 

• Damp and mould – Often caused by poor ventilation or underlying leaks, damp and mould can affect tenant health and damage the property. 

• Electrical faults – Flickering lights, tripping circuits, or faulty sockets can be both frustrating and unsafe. 

• Broken locks or security concerns – If tenants don’t feel secure in the property, it’s a problem that needs fixing fast. 

While these issues can happen in any home, the way they’re handled makes all the difference. A well-maintained property leads to fewer complaints, happier tenants, and ultimately, a more stress-free rental experience for landlords. 

Fixing problems when they arise is one way to manage maintenance—but waiting for something to break before addressing it often leads to higher costs and unnecessary stress. Taking a preventative approach has huge benefits: 

• Fewer emergency callouts – Regular servicing and routine checks help avoid costly last-minute repairs. 

• Protection against long-term damage – Fixing small issues, like a leaking pipe, early can prevent expensive structural damage later on. 

• Lower tenant turnover – Tenants are far more likely to stay in a property where maintenance is taken seriously. 

• Legal compliance without the stress – Gas and electrical safety checks are a legal requirement. Keeping on top of them avoids last-minute panic. 

• Peace of mind for landlords – Knowing that your property is in good shape means fewer unexpected surprises. 

A simple, proactive maintenance routine—such as scheduling an annual boiler service, carrying out seasonal property checks, and responding to minor repairs promptly—can make all the difference in keeping tenants happy and reducing long-term costs. 

Managing property maintenance doesn’t have to be time-consuming or expensive. YourRepair offers landlord care plans designed to take the hassle out of maintenance, keeping your property in good condition while reducing the risk of complaints and costly callouts. 

With YourRepair, you’ll benefit from: 

• 24/7 emergency helpline – Fast access to qualified engineers when urgent issues arise. 

• Annual boiler servicing and heating system checks – Keep everything running smoothly and avoid breakdowns. 

• Plumbing and drainage cover – Prevent leaks and blockages before they become major problems. 

• Gas and electrical safety checks – Stay compliant with landlord regulations without the admin hassle. 

NRLA members can get one month free on any YourRepair landlord care plan when purchasing through NRLA. It’s a simple way to protect your property, reduce complaints, and make sure both you and your tenants are covered. 

A well-maintained property means fewer issues, happier tenants, and lower costs in the long run. By staying on top of maintenance, you can avoid unexpected headaches and focus on what really matters—running a smooth, stress-free rental. 

Find out more and claim your exclusive NRLA offer below.