Building a Reliable Network of Tradespeople

Being a landlord comes with its fair share of responsibilities, and one of the most crucial is ensuring your properties are well-maintained and your tenants are happy. This often means quick and efficient repairs, regular upkeep, and sometimes, emergency interventions. To achieve this, every successful landlord needs a robust and reliable network of tradespeople.

But how do you go about building such a network? It’s not just about having a list of phone numbers; it's about trust, quality, and efficiency. Finding the right people can feel like a daunting task.

Here’s a guide to help you cultivate a network that will save you time, money, and stress in the long run:

1. Define Your Needs and Prioritise

Before you start searching, take stock of the types of trades you'll most frequently need. This typically includes:

• Plumbers: For leaks, blockages, boiler issues, and general plumbing repairs.

  
  

• Electricians: For wiring, fuse box problems, lighting, and safety checks (EICR).

  
  

• Handymen/General Builders: For a wide range of smaller repairs, odd jobs, and minor renovations.

  
  

• Decorators/Painters: For refreshing properties between tenancies or after repairs.

  
  

• Roofers: For leaks, tile replacement, and guttering.

  
  

• Gas Engineers: For boiler servicing and gas appliance checks (Gas Safety Certificates).

  
  

• Cleaners: Essential for end-of-tenancy cleans.

  
  

You might also consider specialists like locksmiths, glaziers, or appliance repair technicians depending on your property portfolio.

2. Start with Recommendations

Word-of-mouth is still one of the most powerful tools.

• Fellow Landlords: Connect with other landlords in your area. They’ve likely been through the process and can offer invaluable insights and direct recommendations. Local landlord forums or associations are great places to start.

  
  

• Estate Agents/Letting Agents: Even if you manage your properties yourself, agents often have a roster of trusted tradespeople they use for their managed properties. They might be willing to share some contacts.

  
  

• Local Community Groups: Online community groups or even physical notice boards can sometimes yield good leads.

3. Vet Thoroughly (Don't Skip This!)

Once you have some names, the real work begins.

• Check Qualifications and Certifications: This is non-negotiable, especially for plumbers (Gas Safe registered for gas work), electricians (NICEIC or equivalent), and roofers (competent person schemes). Ask for proof and verify them if possible.

  
  

• Insurance: Ensure they have public liability insurance. This protects both you and them in case of accidents or damage.

  
  

• References: Ask for references from previous landlord clients. Follow up on these references and ask specific questions about reliability, quality of work, communication, and pricing.

  
  

• Online Reviews: Check platforms like Google Reviews, Trustpilot, or local directories for feedback. While not always definitive, a pattern of negative reviews is a red flag.

  
  

• Get Multiple Quotes: For any significant job, obtain at least three quotes. This helps you understand market rates and assess the professionalism of each tradesperson's approach.

4. Build Relationships and Trust

Think long-term, not just transactional.

• Fair Pricing and Prompt Payment: Be prepared to pay a fair price for quality work, and always pay promptly according to agreed terms. This makes you an attractive client.

  
  

• Clear Communication: Be clear about your expectations, scope of work, and deadlines. Encourage tradespeople to communicate any issues or delays immediately.

  
  

• Regular Work: If you find a tradesperson you like, try to give them consistent work. This builds loyalty and often means they’ll prioritise your jobs.

  
  

• Feedback: Provide constructive feedback, both positive and negative. This helps them improve and shows you value their service.

  
  

• Respect Their Time: Be organised and ensure your properties are accessible when tradespeople are scheduled to visit.

5. Keep Organised

Maintain a well-organised system for your tradespeople contacts:

• Create a Database: Use a spreadsheet or a simple contact list to keep track of names, numbers, email addresses, areas of expertise, rates, and notes on their performance.

  
  

• Emergency Contacts: Have a clearly marked list of emergency plumbers, electricians, and gas engineers for urgent situations.

  
  

• Record Keeping: Keep records of all work done, invoices, and any warranties. This is vital for accounting and future reference.

Building a reliable network of tradespeople is an ongoing process. It takes time and effort, but the payoff is immense. With trusted professionals on your side, you can ensure your properties are well-maintained, your tenants are happy, and your life as a landlord is significantly less stressful.

At Elliot Leigh, we understand the importance of having a reliable team of tradespeople, which is why we have a 24/7 in-house maintenance team as part of our Guaranteed Rent Scheme for minor repairs, regular property inspections, and refurbishments between tenancies. Let us manage the hassle of property upkeep so you can enjoy sustained profitability and peace of mind.

Get in touch today to discover more about how our Guaranteed Rent Scheme takes the stress out of property management while providing you with a consistent rental income, regardless of tenant occupancy or rental arrears.