What do tenants look for in a rented home?

Finding the right tenant isn’t just about filling a property quickly. While minimising void periods is important, taking the time to secure the right tenant can lead to longer tenancies, fewer issues, and more stable income over time.

Gallagher, the NRLA’s Legal Expenses and Rent Guarantee Insurance partner, shares key insights into what tenants value most—and how landlords can make their properties more attractive in a competitive market.

Setting reasonable rent prices

Setting the right rent is critical. It needs to reflect the property’s value and location, while remaining affordable and competitive for tenants.

With ongoing economic pressures, many landlords have had little choice but to increase rents. According to the NRLA’s Landlord Confidence Index, the main drivers behind recent increases include:

• Rising landlord costs
• Inflation
• Anticipated regulatory changes, including the Renters’ Rights Bill

While maximising yield is important, overpricing can be counterproductive. High rents may:

• Deter prospective tenants
• Lead to affordability issues
• Increase the risk of rent arrears

Where arrears do occur, rent guarantee insurance can provide valuable protection—helping cover lost rental income and legal costs if possession action becomes necessary. As with any policy, it’s important to review terms carefully and ensure all conditions are followed to maintain cover.

What Tenants Want from a Property

Understanding tenant priorities can help you market your property more effectively—and identify worthwhile improvements.

1. Space and Layout

Tenants value space. Larger rooms offer:

• Greater flexibility
• More storage
• A more comfortable living environment

Tip: Use clear room dimensions and high-quality images in your listings to showcase space.

2. Energy Efficiency

With energy costs remaining a key concern, tenants are increasingly focused on:

• EPC ratings
• Insulation quality
• Efficient appliances

Upgrades such as double glazing and improved insulation not only reduce bills but can also make your property more appealing.

Some landlords are also exploring inclusive rent models (bills included) to provide certainty for tenants.

3. Outdoor space

Demand for private outdoor space has grown significantly in recent years.

Gardens, patios, or balconies can:

• Enhance lifestyle appeal
• Differentiate your property
• Support longer tenancies

Even smaller spaces can add value if presented well.

4. Location and Connectivity

Location remains a key factor in tenant decision-making. Tenants often prioritise:

• Proximity to work
• Transport links
• Access to shops, schools, and amenities

Properties with strong local connectivity are typically more attractive and resilient in demand.

5. Modern Features

Features such as:

• Double glazing
• Good natural light
• Secure entry systems

…can all positively influence tenant choice and should be clearly highlighted in marketing materials.

What Tenants Expect from a Landlord

It’s not just the property that matters—the landlord plays an equally important role in tenant retention.

Responsiveness and Communication

Tenants expect issues to be dealt with promptly. Failing to address repairs can:

• Lead to bigger problems
• Damage the landlord-tenant relationship

Respect and Professionalism

While inspections are important, tenants also value privacy.

Key principles:

• Provide appropriate notice before visits
• Avoid excessive check-ins
• Treat the property as the tenant’s home

A professional, respectful approach helps build trust—and encourages tenants to stay longer.

Protecting Your Investment

Gallagher provides NRLA Members with suitable cover for your property, its contents and your liabilities.
To find out more, speak to the specialist team on 0333 000 0169.

Or speak to our specialist team on 0333 000 0169.

The sole purpose of this article is to provide information on the issues covered. This article is not intended to give legal advice, and, accordingly, it should not be relied upon. It should not be regarded as a comprehensive statement of the law and/or market practice in this area. We make no claims as to the completeness or accuracy of the information contained herein or in the links which were live at the date of publication. You should not act upon (or should refrain from acting upon) information in this publication without first seeking specific legal and/or specialist advice. Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited trading as Rentguard and National Residential Landlords Association, an Introducer Appointed Representative of Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited, accepts no liability for any inaccuracy, omission or mistake in this publication, nor will we be responsible for any loss which may be suffered as a result of any person relying on the information contained herein.

National Residential Landlords Association is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered Office: Spectrum Building, 55 Blythswood Street, Glasgow, G2 7AT. Registered in Scotland. Company Number: SC108909. Rentguard is a trading name of Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited.