New findings from Aldermore’s Buy to Let Index suggest that tenant-landlord relations in the private rental sector may be more positive than widely perceived.

The study, which gathered responses from 2,000 tenants and 500 landlords, shows that 66% of tenants describe their relationship with their landlord as favourable.

Furthermore, 77% reported that communication with their landlord was effective.

In contrast, only 13% of tenants reported a negative relationship, while the remainder considered the dynamic to be neutral.

Responsiveness was also a notable factor. According to the survey, 63% of tenants said landlords were accessible when problems needed to be addressed. On the landlords’ side, 89% stated that maintaining the condition of their properties—including repairs and ongoing maintenance—was a clear priority.

Among tenants who reported a positive experience, 35% said their landlord had taken the initiative to offer assistance without being asked. Additional findings reveal that 18% had received small but meaningful improvements to their rental property. Meanwhile, 35% had been allowed to carry out cosmetic changes, and 34% were permitted to keep pets in the property.

Commenting on the findings, Jon Cooper, director of mortgages at Aldermore, said: “Being a good landlord isn’t just about collecting rent. It’s about creating a safe and well-maintained property, coupled with open communication that creates a professional and respectful relationship with a tenant.

“Despite some negative reports of the tenant/landlord relationship, our data shows that the majority have positive experiences, with many landlords making a proactive effort to improve the living situation of renters.”

The data provides insight into a sector often portrayed in a negative light, indicating that a substantial number of landlords and tenants are managing their relationships constructively and with mutual respect.