For landlords, void periods—when a property is unoccupied and not generating rental income—can be one of the biggest threats to profitability.
Whether managing a single buy-to-let or an entire portfolio, minimizing void periods is essential to ensure consistent cash flow and a solid return on investment.
In this guide, we’ll share expert tips to help landlords avoid void periods and explain how partnering with a proactive estate agency like London Estate Agency can keep your property tenanted and profitable all year round.
✅ What Are Void Periods?
A void period occurs when your property has no paying tenants.
You still have to cover mortgage payments, council tax, utilities, and maintenance during this time, but you’re not earning any rental income.
Left unchecked, even short voids can eat into your yearly profits.
Pro Tips to Avoid Void Periods
Start Marketing Before the Tenancy Ends
One of the most effective strategies is advertising the property 6–8 weeks before the current tenancy ends.
This gives you enough time to schedule viewings, vet tenants, and have someone ready to move in right after the current tenant moves out.
💡 Our letting specialists begin the marketing process well in advance and, with consent, even conduct viewings while current tenants are still in place.
Price Your Property Competitively
Overpricing your property can deter potential tenants, leaving it vacant. Use local market data to ensure your rental price reflects current demand.
💬 We provide landlords with detailed rental market comparisons and pricing strategies to help attract the right tenants faster.
Offer Flexible Tenancy Options
Offering short-term or flexible lease lengths can open your property to a wider tenant pool, especially in high-demand areas like London.
📌 Our tenant screening ensures flexibility, which doesn’t mean compromise—only qualified tenants are considered.
Maintain Your Property to a High Standard
A clean, modern, and well-maintained property quickly attracts tenants.
Ensure everything is functional, from plumbing to appliances, and consider freshening up interiors with paint or new fittings.
🛠️ Our in-house maintenance team ensures your property is always in tenant-ready condition.
Use Professional Photography and Listings
First impressions count. High-quality photos and professionally written listings significantly improve click-through and enquiry rates.
📸 We use professional photography and optimized online listings on Rightmove, Zoopla, and other top platforms.
Choose a Local Letting Expert
A local estate agent knows how to price your property right, find suitable tenants quickly, and manage viewings efficiently—helping you avoid costly downtime between tenancies.
🏡 At London Estate Agency, our expert lettings team specializes in keeping your property tenanted and income-generating all year round.
The London Estate Agency Advantage
We don’t just find tenants—we help landlords protect their income and grow their rental investment. Here’s how we help you avoid void periods:
- Tenant Find & Screening Services
- Rent Protection & Legal Cover
- Fast Re-Marketing of Expiring Tenancies
- In-House EPCs & Compliance Checks
- Hands-Off Property Management
Looking for long-term peace of mind and maximum occupancy? Speak to one of our experienced letting advisors today.
FAQs: Avoiding Void Periods
What’s the average void period in the UK?
The average void period in the UK is around 3–4 weeks, but in competitive markets like London, it can be even shorter with the right strategy.
How much can a void period cost me?
If your property rents for £1,500/month, a one-month void equals £1,500 lost income, plus any standing costs like council tax or mortgage repayments.
Should I lower the rent to avoid void periods?
Not necessarily. Instead of lowering rent, focus on adding value or improving the marketing. However, strategic reductions can sometimes prevent longer voids.
What’s the quickest way to re-let a property?
List your property early, ensure it’s clean and well-presented, and use an experienced letting agent with access to pre-qualified tenants.
Can you manage everything for me?
Yes! We offer full-service property management, including tenant find, referencing, maintenance, rent protection, and legal support—so you can enjoy stress-free letting.
Ready to Keep Your Property Tenanted Year-Round?
Don’t let your rental income suffer from unnecessary voids.
Whether you’re a hands-on landlord or looking for a completely managed solution, London Estate Agency has the local expertise and services to keep your property earning—month after month.
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