Time for an Update? Why Long-Term Landlords Should Rethink Their Rental Standards
Tue 19 Aug 2025
Over a recent lunch with an old friend, a long-time landlord whose portfolio I once managed, our conversation turned to one of his tenanted properties. It was, by all accounts, a time capsule: no heating, old fittings, and furniture that wouldn’t look out of place in the 1970s.
In fairness, the tenant had been in her nineties and had lived in the home for decades. The landlord hadn’t felt it right to make major changes while she lived there. While his care and respect were admirable, it got me thinking about how often long-standing landlords-particularly those with longstanding tenants-can unintentionally fall behind when it comes to property standards.
It’s important to recognise that housing standards have changed. The Decent Homes Standard, Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), and the ever-growing emphasis on tenant well-being mean that simply letting a property "as it is" may no longer be acceptable, or legal. Take my landlord friend, for instance. He waited until his tenant moved into care before upgrading the home. He hadn’t realised that, legally, had he wanted to carry out significant works while she was still there, he would have been responsible for providing alternative accommodation. In short: even the most well-meaning landlords have a legal duty to ensure their homes are safe, warm, and habitable.
Modern tenants, whether young professionals or families, have growing expectations:
Landlords shouldn’t see refurbishing as a cost, but as an investment. A newly updated property:
At Wills & Smerdon, we work closely with landlords to help ensure their properties meet current standards while remaining attractive to tenants. If you’re unsure where to start, or how much to spend-we’re happy to advise. After all, a little investment today can save you a world of hassle tomorrow. East Horsley Office: 01483 284141
In fairness, the tenant had been in her nineties and had lived in the home for decades. The landlord hadn’t felt it right to make major changes while she lived there. While his care and respect were admirable, it got me thinking about how often long-standing landlords-particularly those with longstanding tenants-can unintentionally fall behind when it comes to property standards.
A Common Oversight
At Wills & Smerdon, we recently listed a property for rent that felt very much the same. It clearly had a long rental history, with traditional fittings, vintage furniture, and dated appliances. There’s a certain charm to that, but today’s tenants are looking for modern comforts-efficient heating, contemporary kitchens, and neutral décor. It’s not that these landlords are neglectful. In fact, many are wonderfully conscientious. But because their properties have been continuously let over the years, often to tenants who don’t complain or request upgrades-they haven’t felt the need to modernise. The result? Homes that struggle to meet today’s expectations.
The Legal (and Moral) Responsibility
It’s important to recognise that housing standards have changed. The Decent Homes Standard, Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), and the ever-growing emphasis on tenant well-being mean that simply letting a property "as it is" may no longer be acceptable, or legal. Take my landlord friend, for instance. He waited until his tenant moved into care before upgrading the home. He hadn’t realised that, legally, had he wanted to carry out significant works while she was still there, he would have been responsible for providing alternative accommodation. In short: even the most well-meaning landlords have a legal duty to ensure their homes are safe, warm, and habitable.
What Today’s Tenants Expect
Modern tenants, whether young professionals or families, have growing expectations:
- Efficient central heating
- Modern kitchens and bathrooms
- Fresh, neutral décor
- Safe electrical systems and up-to-date appliances
- Energy-efficient features (think double glazing, insulation, EPC ratings of E or above)
A Modern Refurb is an Investment
Landlords shouldn’t see refurbishing as a cost, but as an investment. A newly updated property:
- Commands higher rent
- Attracts a wider pool of quality tenants
- Is more energy-efficient (reducing bills and boosting EPC ratings)
- Reduces long-term maintenance issues
- Increases the value of the asset
A Word to the Wise Landlord
If you're a landlord with a long-standing portfolio, now is the perfect time to take stock. Walk through your properties with fresh eyes (or better yet, ask us to do it with you).
- What would a new tenant think?
- What changes would make your home more comfortable, more efficient, and more attractive?