What to Look for in a Good Property Management Company

Many landlords search for “property management near me” or “property management companies near me” when seeking someone to handle their rental investment property. However, choosing a local agency is only the first step. You also need to ensure that the company is qualified and reliable. Whether you own commercial real estate or a residential buy-to-let, it is important to evaluate a property manager on several key factors.  

This guide explores what to look for, from the services they offer and their industry experience to fee transparency, use of technology, legal compliance, customer service and reputation.  

Key Services Offered

A quality property management company should cover all the essential tasks of day-to-day property management. Key services should be expected to include:

• Rent collection – making sure rent is paid on time.

• Tenant management – acting as the tenants’ main point of contact and handling day-to-day issues.

• Maintenance coordination – arranging prompt repairs and regular upkeep.

• Legal compliance – overseeing safety inspections, deposit protection and other legal requirements.

• Marketing and lettings – advertising vacancies, showing the property, vetting tenants and preparing tenancy agreements.

Typically, full management fees cover services such as tenant support, rent collection, maintenance and legal compliance​ as part of the package. When comparing companies, ask for a breakdown of services included so that you know exactly what you are paying for.  

Experience and Specialization

Experience in the property sector – and specifically with your type of property – is important. Look for a company with a proven track record managing properties similar to yours, whether that is offices, retail units or residential buy-to-lets. If you own commercial real estate, ensure that the company has expertise in commercial leases, service charges and business tenant needs​.  

For buy-to-let mangers, confirm that they are well-versed in residential tenancy laws and regulations, and private tenant management. Local market knowledge is also key – an experienced local agent can advise on optimal rent levels and has a network of local contractors. A company’s professional credentials can also speak to its specialization. Check if they are members of professional industry bodies such as ARLA Propertymark or RICS. It could be a positive sign if they are​.  

In short, choose a management company with ample experience and expertise in the specific market segment that your property falls in.  

Fees and Transparency

Property management companies usually charge a management fee as a percentage of the rent. This is often around 10–15% of the monthly rent for full management, though this can vary. In London, it may be closer to 15–20%​ [1]. Always clarify what this fee covers. A good company will provide a clear contract, listing all the services included for that fee. Make sure it covers essentials such as rent collection, inspections and day-to-day management, and that you know what you are paying for.  

Also check for any additional fees. Some agents charge extra for one-off services such as finding a new tenant, arranging inventory reports or tenancy renewal administration​. Be wary of hidden charges. The key is transparency – you should understand all the costs up front. The contract should also outline how either party could terminate the agreement and the required notice period, avoiding surprises later.  

Technology and Efficiency

Modern property management has been transformed by technology. Good management companies use digital solutions to streamline tasks and improve services. Look for features such as:

• Online landlord portals – allowing owners to check rent payments, statements and property reports anytime.

• Tenant apps or portals – enabling tenants to pay rent online, request maintenance and receive updates conveniently, rather than relying on phone calls or paper forms.

• Automated alerts and tracking – systems that send reminders for important tasks, such as safety inspections due or rent overdue, and provide real-time updates on current issues.

• Digital documentation – electronic signing of leases and digital storage of tenancy documents, making the process faster and paperless.

Tenants increasingly expect tech-enabled conveniences – one survey found 73% of tenants who aren’t yet using digital tools would like to​ [2]. A tech-savvy property manager can improve efficiency and transparency, keeping both you and your tenants happy.  

Legal Compliance and Risk Management

One significant advantage of a good property management company is risk management: they handle legal compliance, so you don’t have to worry about it. This includes essential duties such as protecting the tenant’s deposit, keeping up with safety standards (for example, gas and electrical safety inspections, and functioning smoke and carbon monoxide alarms), providing required documents (for example, an Energy Performance Certificate and the government “How to Rent” guide), and following proper procedures for notices and evictions.  

For example, failing to protect a deposit or provide the required documents at the start of the tenancy, including, for example, an inventory and gas safety certificate, can invalidate an eviction notice​. A reliable management company will prevent such pitfalls by staying compliant with all current laws and keeping records of everything.  

Customer Service and Communication

A property manager’s approach to customer service is crucial, as it impacts both you and your tenants. As communication is key, choose a company known for being responsive, proactive and easy to contact. There should be clear channels for routine queries and a 24/7 emergency line for urgent issues (such as a flood in the middle of the night). Poor communication is one of the most common gripes in property management.  

In one survey, 54% of tenants and 77% of landlords reported communication issues with their letting agents [3]. Such lapses aren’t just frustrating, they can also cost you money. If tenants feel ignored, they may not renew their tenancy agreements. 42% of tenants dealing with unresponsive management said they were likely to move within a year​. Ultimately, you want managers who treat tenants well and keep you in the loop at all times.  

Reputation and Reviews  

Before signing up, always check a property management company’s reputation. Read online reviews (for example, on Google and Trustpilot) to see what other landlords and tenants have experienced. Today’s consumers rely heavily on reviews – about 85% of people trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations​ [4].  

A company with consistently high ratings and positive testimonials about communication, responsiveness and problem-solving could be a strong candidate. If, instead, you find repeated complaints (for example, about slow repairs or poor communication), consider that a red flag. It is also wise to verify their credentials.  

Reputable property management companies should be members of a redress scheme and ideally hold industry accreditations (such as ARLA membership). Such affiliations can indicate that they adhere to professional standards and have client money protections in place. A solid reputation backed by positive reviews and proper credentials can give you the confidence that you are entrusting your property to capable professionals.  

Conclusion  

Selecting a property management company is a significant decision. By focusing on the key areas referred to above – including services, experience, fees, technology, compliance, communication and reputation – you can find a partner who will care for your commercial property or BTL portfolio as diligently as you would. The right company will make your life easier and help your investment perform, creating a win-win for you and your tenants.  

FAQs

Q. What services should a good property management company offer?

A. A quality property management company should handle rent collection, tenant management, property maintenance, legal compliance and marketing of vacant properties. They should also offer services such as deposit protection, inspections and eviction handling, if required.

Q. How much do property management companies charge?

A. Property management fees typically range from 10–15% of the monthly rent for full management. In London, fees can be higher, around 15–20%. Some companies may also charge additional fees for services such as tenant sourcing, inventory reports or tenancy renewals.

Q. How can I check if a property management company is reputable?

A. Check online reviews on platforms such as Google, Trustpilot and AllAgents, and look for memberships of professional bodies such as ARLA Propertymark and of the Property Ombudsman scheme. These affiliations can indicate adherence to industry standards.

Q. Do property management companies use technology to improve service?

A. Many modern property managers use digital tools such as online landlord portals, tenant apps, automated reminders for inspections and rent payments, and electronic lease signing. These features enhance efficiency and transparency.

Q. How do property managers ensure legal compliance for landlords?

A. A reliable property management company ensures legal compliance by handling deposit protection, gas and electrical safety checks, EPC certificates, tenancy agreements and eviction notices. They stay up to date with landlord laws to prevent legal risks.

Q. What are the main red flags when choosing a property management company?

A. Red flags include hidden fees, poor communication, lack of industry accreditation, negative online reviews, slow response times for repairs and tenant issues. Always read the contract carefully and check their reputation before signing up.