10 Traits of a Great Landlord
There are lots of characteristics that make a leader, a manager, or even a husband or wife great. We thought we'd look at the job of being a landlord through the same lens. A few things to chew on:
- Great landlords are responsive. They respect that someone calls their unit home, deal with issues and questions promptly, and treat their tenants like customers.
- Great landlords aren't doormats. While treating tenants like customers, they stand firm on the fundamentals: paying the rent, respecting other tenants, following the rules and looking after the unit. When that doesn't happen, they respond appropriately and decisively, and they don't shy away from an awkward conversation.
- Great landlords know the law in their province. That's more than rent increases. It includes how disputes are resolved, how to give notices properly, and the rules on sublets, deposits and pets. Know the whole law, and check it again when it changes. In Ontario, several rules changed in 2026: see what changed.
- Great landlords are diplomatic. Resolving a dispute shouldn't be an emotional exchange. They listen as much as they talk, and know you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar.
- Great landlords keep the rent realistic. Not increasing rent for years can hurt the property, because costs often rise faster than inflation. But being a great landlord also means not raising rent as far as you technically can, just because you can.
- Great landlords always do a good job, even when vacancy rates are low.
- Great landlords take pride in their property.
- Great landlords are fair and flexible, and expect the same of their tenants.
- Great landlords don't do things the cheapest possible way. From repairs and renovations to snow removal, they're practical, but they do it properly and stand behind it.
- Great landlords are decent. They keep the place in good condition, respect their tenants' privacy and rights even though they can enter the unit with proper notice, never hold "I own this place" over anyone, and behave politely and ethically when things go wrong.
What do you think makes a good landlord great?
Originally published June 7, 2013. Updated October 21, 2026: we added a link to the 2026 Ontario rule changes, and removed links that had been added to this post without our permission.