Whether a landlord owns and rents out one property or dozens, it is likely that from time to time they will come across a tenant that runs into financial or social difficulties.

These may affect his or her ability to pay their rent on time, or even their need to live in the home any longer, but in such situations it can pay for landlords to have a positive and caring attitude. At least, that is in the opinion of David Lawrenson, private rented sector expert at LettingFocus.com, who said good communication between a property owner and a tenant is a must.

Many problems between landlords and tenants are caused by the simple fact they do not talk to each other often enough. In cases of financial hardship, it could be good of landlords to offer assistance to the person living in their property. For instance, if they have lost their job, recommending local housing allowance is a wise move.

"My advice for tenants and landlords is to get together, speak and try to find a workable solution - it might involve the tenant leaving and having to find other accommodation. Most landlords ought to be supportive in trying to find a solution," Mr Lawrenson stated.

Should tenants move out, it will provide landlords with a perfect opportunity to instigate a range of home improvements. By calling upon the services of builders, electricians and plumbers, they can upgrade the property in question and raise living standards, potentially leading to them being able to charge more in rent to the next tenant.

Mr Lawrenson added that most people feel they are tied in for at least 12 months when renting a home, but this is not always the case. There are circumstances in which it is ideal for both property owners and renters to get out of such an agreement.

Investing in a home in a bid to improve it - perhaps by having an extension added by a builder - could be a particularly good idea at the current time, as recent research has shown some people are finding it difficult to attract increasing rental income. Indeed, Cluttons this week revealed rents in prime central London properties fell by 0.6 per cent in the first quarter of 2012.

This means the average landlord of such a property is taking £1,032 instead of £1,043 per week. Perhaps the best way to see this heading in the right direction once more is to improve the home in question.

Mr Lawrenson added that landlords should maintain good relations with tenants so that their situation is made stronger, perhaps through increased loyalty. Flexibility is one of the key attributes of the ultimate landlord and people who own properties should ensure they offer it.

When it comes to putting a home back on the rental market, a reputation for fairness and support, as well as potentially a much-improved abode, are likely to come in handy for finding a brand new tenant to enjoy many more months of income from.

If you have a home to rent out, why not visit RatedPeople.com and find a tradesman that can knock your property into shape?