If you are a landlord you may be one of the many who want to be considered a good landlord by your tenants. Landlords don't always have the best image and that may be down in part to the media portrayal, or perhaps due to a minority of truly awful landlords who let property.

The key to being a good landlord is to remember that you are running a business and your tenant is your customer. They should be treated with respect at all times.

However, the waters of this relationship can be muddied when you consider that there are considerable property investments, large sums of money and all the emotions of dealing with someone's home. Maintaining respect for your tenant can be more difficult when these factors are taken into account.

So how can you maintain your side of this relationship in a decent manner and become a good landlord? There are a number of ways as detailed below.

Before your potential tenants even see your property you should make sure that everything is in good order – décor, furniture, carpets, fixtures and fittings. The better your property looks, the better quality of tenant you are likely to attract.

Also before your tenants get a chance to ask you should ensure all your legal requirements are covered in terms of fire safety, boiler maintenance and any certificates that are applicable in your area.

Ensure your tenant has all possible information when signing the tenancy agreement – copies of the agreement, inventory lists for them to check, full address details, contact details and details of any utility suppliers.

Help make life easier for your tenant by offering to take care of any utility account or local property tax transfer of details. Not only is this helping your tenant, but it is also protecting yourself by keeping utilities running and being billed to the correct people.

Make it easy for your tenant to report any faults or problems with the property. You should positively encourage this and thank them for letting you know. When a fault is reported, arrange people to repair it promptly and put the tradesman in touch with your tenant so they can arrange a mutually convenient time for the appointment.

If your agreement gives you the right to inspect your property, you may do so but always give more notice than required and try to fit your inspection around your tenant's schedule. Should any issues arise, treat them in a dignified manner and resolve them through the means specified in your tenancy agreement.

At the end of the tenancy, return your tenant's deposit promptly and if you have had to deduct any amount, do so fairly and advise on the reason for the retained amounts in writing.

As long as you respect your tenants you will find that the majority will respect you and your property in kind.