How to Choose a Property Management Company in London | Keating Estates

How to Choose a Property Management Company in London

Owning a rental property in London can be profitable — but only if it’s managed properly. With legal requirements tightening, tenant expectations rising, and the city’s fast-moving market, having the right property management company by your side is no longer optional — it’s essential.

But not all management companies offer the same level of service, transparency, or expertise. At Keating Estates, we’ve worked with hundreds of landlords across South London, helping them get the most from their investments while staying compliant and stress-free. Here’s what to consider when choosing a property management company in London.

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1. Local Area Knowledge

Choose a company that knows your borough — and your street. Local insight matters when it comes to:

  • Setting the right rent
  • Finding the right tenants
  • Understanding licensing and council regulations

At Keating Estates, we manage properties across SW12, SW2, SW4, SE24, and SW16 — so we know what tenants expect and how local trends affect your return.

2. Services That Fit Your Needs

Different landlords need different levels of support. Look for companies that offer:

  • Let-only services (if you want to manage after letting)
  • Rent collection only
  • Full management (for hands-off landlords)

Full management usually includes:

  • Marketing, tenant sourcing, referencing
  • Rent collection & arrears management
  • Maintenance coordination
  • Compliance and legal support

3. Transparency on Fees

Hidden charges are a red flag. Make sure you understand:

  • Monthly management fees (typically 10–15%)
  • Additional costs for maintenance, inspections, or renewals
  • Setup or tenancy renewal fees

Ask for a full breakdown in writing.

4. Communication & Support

You should know who’s looking after your property — and they should be easy to reach.

Ask:

  • Will I have a dedicated property manager?
  • How are emergencies handled?
  • How often will I receive updates?

A responsive manager makes all the difference in emergencies, tenant relations, and issue resolution.

5. Tenant Vetting Process

Your income depends on quality tenants. Ask how the company:

  • Advertises the property
  • Screens applicants (credit, income, references)
  • Handles move-ins and onboarding

At Keating Estates, we maintain an active database of pre-qualified tenants, speeding up the letting process.

6. Legal Compliance & Safety

The best management companies stay ahead of:

  • Gas safety checks and EICRs
  • EPC updates (target rating C or better)
  • Fire and smoke alarm regulations
  • HMO and selective licensing (where applicable)

They’ll also handle renewals and keep all documentation current.

7. Maintenance & Repairs

Ask about:

  • Response times for repairs
  • Preferred contractors (in-house or outsourced)
  • Emergency cover (especially for out-of-hours issues)
  • Whether landlords approve works over a certain budget

Good companies manage costs smartly — not just quickly.

8. Reviews, Referrals & Case Studies

Ask for:

  • Online reviews on Google or Trustpilot
  • Case studies of similar landlords
  • Testimonials from landlords with similar property types

This gives insight into their professionalism, results, and reliability.

9. Management Technology

Modern management includes:

  • Online portals for statements and updates
  • Digital maintenance tracking
  • Easy communication channels for tenants and landlords

This improves transparency and makes day-to-day interaction simpler.

10. Trust Your Instincts

If the company:

  • Doesn’t return calls
  • Avoids detailed questions
  • Overpromises without evidence…

…keep looking. The right management company is a long-term partner — not just an inbox.

Q&A: Choosing a Management Company

FAQs – Letting Property Remotely

No. With a good management company, many of our clients live abroad.

Yes — especially for landlords with jobs, families, or multiple properties. It pays for itself in time and peace of mind.

We can onboard the property mid-tenancy and liaise directly with your tenants.

Yes — and we’ll help manage the handover smoothly.

Ready to Choose the Right Property Manager?

Keating Estates offers full-service property management across London. We combine local knowledge, responsive support, and trusted systems to make your investment work harder — and easier.

Visit: www.keatingestates.com
Call: 020 7274 3111
Email: info@keatingestates.com