A leading lettings payment automation provider recommends claims that if landlords provide tenants information on each other's responsibilities/duties, it will almost certainly make renters feel safer and establish better customer relations between the two parties.

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Some recent research from a trade body shows that 79% of tenants are calling for better information about which responsibilities they have, the landlords/letting agents' obligations and which duties they have to share.

Neil Cobbold, Chief Operating Officer of a Proptech company, said: "Proactively educating tenants on the rental process from the outset can save agents time from having to mediate unnecessary disputes between landlords and tenants.

Some key areas where tenants may lack understanding relate to financial obligations and property upkeep. It’s very important to make sure tenants are kept informed throughout the tenancy. Often tenants are set wondering: ‘Has my rent been received?’, ‘How much do I owe?’, ‘Is my deposit safe?’, ‘Is it my responsibility?’ and ‘Who pays for repair work?'

If tenants are clear on what to expect, they are more likely to be satisfied and stay in the property for longer – at least as long as those expectations are then met. This can help reduce arrears and void periods for letting agents and landlords."

Apparently the trade association's research found that 67% of tenants, of the 900 that took part in the survey, had no idea that the government's How to Rent guide ever existed, which helps them be fully aware of their responsibilities and rights.

Cobbold was surprised to find that the majority of tenants are unaware of the Guide as it is a landlord's legal obligation to present copies to tenants at the beginning of any tenancy.

He said: "Agents could do more to promote the How to Rent guide to consumers. It's a free government resource that is updated regularly and includes a lot the information renters may need. By making sure tenants not only read but understand this guide, letting agencies can manage expectations from the outset of a tenancy and save time and money on creating their own educational materials."

He also suggests that besides making tenants aware of the How to Rent guide, landlords and letting agents should also further information which will help improve customer peace of mind.

Cobbold added: "Acting early and explaining things clearly in person during viewings and other meetings can help to build a rapport and understanding with tenants.

Providing resources that you have created or pointing consumers in the direction of other trusted industry sources throughout the tenancy can also be effective. It's important for agents to encourage landlords to prioritise good communication and set out roles and responsibilities on both sides of the relationship.

Cobbold also points out it is always in the best of interest of both parties that the tenancy lease, rental payment due date and the exact period of notice are set out clearly and made available by email and hard copy for further clarity.

He finishes by saying: "A concerted effort from agencies and landlords to provide renters with more clarity could make for a more harmonious and efficient private rented sector."