Rented homes can be managed by a landlord, letting agent, or property manager – and sometimes all three.
While the three roles are similar, there are key differences. Knowing which is which makes starting a tenancy simpler and helps you know who to contact if you have an issue.
What does a landlord do?
A landlord is the person or organisation that owns a property and rents it to another party. Both landlord and tenant sign a tenancy or lease agreement outlining their responsibilities.
For tenants, this means paying rent on time and maintaining the property’s condition. Landlords are responsible for keeping the property in good condition, carrying out repairs, and ensuring it remains a safe place to live.
A landlord’s legal responsibilities (UK)
- Keep the property safe and free of hazards
- Ensure gas and electrical appliances are installed and inspected correctly
- Use a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme
- Give tenants at least 24 hours’ notice before entering the property
- Raise rent only once a year (for rolling tenancies) or at the end of a fixed-term tenancy
What does a letting agent do?
Some tenants deal directly with their landlord, but many landlords use a letting agent to act as an intermediary.
A letting agent handles tenancies on behalf of landlords. Their services often include:
- Advertising rental properties and finding new tenants
- Drafting tenancy agreements
- Collecting rent
Top tip: Starting a new tenancy? Check which fees your letting agent is allowed to charge.
Letting agent vs estate agent
These two roles are often confused, but they’re different:
- Estate agents help with buying and selling property (valuations, marketing, negotiations, contracts).
- Letting agents work with landlords who keep ownership and rent out their properties.
Many businesses act as both, which is why you’ll often see properties listed for both sale and rent.
What does a property manager do?
A property manager’s role overlaps with a letting agent but extends further. They:
- Advertise vacancies
- Reference-check new tenants
- Arrange tenancy agreements
Unlike letting agents, property managers also handle the day-to-day running of the property, including:
- Repairs and maintenance
- Tenant communication during the tenancy
If your home has a property manager, they’ll be your main point of contact. You should be given their details at the start of your tenancy—keep them handy in case of emergencies.
