Becoming a landlord can create a valuable source of long-term income, but managing a rental property involves much more than finding a tenant and collecting rent.
The rules for private renting in England changed significantly on 1 May 2026. Existing assured shorthold tenancies generally became assured periodic tenancies, while new assured tenancies now operate on a rolling basis without a fixed end date.
Here are ten common mistakes new landlords should avoid.
- Relying on Outdated Information
One of the biggest mistakes landlords make is using old tenancy templates or following advice written before the 2026 reforms.
Landlords should review the official Renters’ Rights Act guidance for landlords and ensure their documents and procedures reflect the current rules.
Depending on when the tenancy began and whether it was recorded in writing, landlords may also have specific duties relating to the information provided to tenants.
- Failing to Carry Out Proper Tenant Checks
Choosing a tenant based only on a brief conversation or first impression can create avoidable risks.
Before agreeing to a tenancy, landlords should consider completing:
- Identity checks
- Affordability checks
- Employment or income checks
- Previous landlord references
- Credit checks where appropriate
- Right to Rent checks
Landlords or their agents must complete the appropriate checks before renting residential property in England. These may involve checking original documents, using a registered digital service or checking an eligible tenant’s share code online. Read the official Right to Rent guidance.
- Mishandling the Tenancy Deposit
Where a tenancy deposit must be protected, landlords or their agents should place it in a government-approved tenancy deposit protection scheme within 30 days of receiving it.
The tenant must also be given the required information about how the deposit has been protected.
Common mistakes include:
- Protecting the deposit late
- Providing incomplete information
- Recording incorrect tenant details
- Failing to retain evidence
- Making deductions without supporting records
Review the official tenancy deposit protection guidance before accepting a deposit.
- Missing Safety and Compliance Requirements
Landlords are responsible for keeping rented properties safe and addressing relevant health hazards.
Requirements may include:
- Gas safety checks
- Electrical safety inspections
- Smoke alarms
- Carbon monoxide alarms
- Fire safety measures
- Energy Performance Certificates
- Repairing heating, water, and electrical systems
- Responding to damp, mould, and other serious hazards
The exact requirements depend on the type of property and tenancy. Check the official landlord safety responsibilities and general landlord responsibilities.
- Starting the Tenancy Without an Inventory
A detailed inventory records the condition of the property at the beginning of the tenancy.
It should include:
- Clear photographs
- Videos where appropriate
- Meter readings
- Appliance details
- Furniture condition
- Existing marks or damage
- Keys provided
- Alarm testing records
The tenant should be given an opportunity to review the inventory and report any differences.
Without clear evidence of the original condition, it may be difficult to justify deductions at the end of the tenancy.
- Setting the Wrong Rent
Setting the rent too high can lead to fewer enquiries and a longer void period. Setting it too low can reduce the property’s return.
Landlords should compare their property with similar homes in the same area and consider:
- Property size
- Number of bedrooms
- Condition
- Furnishings
- Parking
- Outdoor space
- Energy efficiency
- Local demand
Browse our currently available properties to see how homes across Sheffield, Barnsley, Rotherham and surrounding areas are presented and priced.
Landlords should remember that advertised rents provide useful context, but they do not automatically establish the correct market rent for another property.
- Delaying Repairs and Maintenance
A minor maintenance issue can become a costly repair when ignored.
Slow responses can also damage the relationship between the landlord and tenant.
Landlords should have a clear process for:
- Receiving repair reports
- Assessing urgency
- Contacting contractors
- Recording completed work
- Updating tenants
- Following up after repairs
Our guide on how to reduce property maintenance costs includes practical advice on contractor selection and preventative maintenance.
- Keeping Poor Records
Important tenancy information should be stored securely and kept up to date.
Records may include:
- Tenancy documents
- Deposit information
- Safety certificates
- Inspection reports
- Inventories
- Repair requests
- Contractor invoices
- Rent statements
- Notices and letters
- Tenant correspondence
Important telephone conversations about repairs, access or tenancy changes should be confirmed in writing.
Good records help both the landlord and tenant understand what was reported, agreed, and completed.
- Increasing Rent Incorrectly
A landlord should not simply send a message stating that the rent will increase the following month.
For most assured periodic tenancies in England, the landlord must use Form 4A, follow the Section 13 process and give at least two months’ notice.
Rent cannot normally be increased more than once in a year, and the proposed amount should reflect the open-market rental value. Read the official GOV.UK rent-increase guidance.
- Trying to Manage Everything Without Support
Managing a property requires time, organisation, communication skills, and knowledge of landlord responsibilities.
New landlords may benefit from professional support with:
- Tenant finding
- Referencing
- Deposit administration
- Rent collection
- Inspections
- Repairs
- Compliance
- Rent reviews
- Tenant communication
Learn more about our landlord property management services or compare our management services and pricing.
You can also review our landlord testimonials and case studies to see how we have supported first-time landlords and experienced investors.
Final Thoughts
Most landlord mistakes are not deliberate. They often happen because someone relies on outdated information, misses a deadline or does not have a reliable management system.
Good preparation, clear records, and prompt communication can help protect the property and maintain a positive tenancy.
For support with tenants, inspections, maintenance, and property management, contact My Landlord Cares.
Disclaimer
This article is provided for general information and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, financial, tax, or investment advice. Landlord responsibilities and private-renting regulations may change, and different rules may apply depending on the property, tenancy, and location. Landlords should check the latest official government guidance and obtain advice from an appropriately qualified professional where necessary.