Most UK bosses are unhappy with the service they receive from their letting agents and landlords, according to a new report.
The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Satisfaction Index reveals that only 39 per cent of business tenants are satisfied with the quality of property service they receive.
Owners believe improved communication with their landlords and managing agents would improve their satisfaction levels.
Business tenants were particularly unhappy with the availability of landlords and agents as well as the lack of proactive support.
Occupiers also cited dispute resolution, contract details and lease flexibility as reasons for their dissatisfaction.
Such dissatisfaction can lead to expensive commercial disputes between business owners and letting agents. According to business advisors BDO Stoy Hayward an average commercial dispute can cost businesses up to £75,000.
Louis Armstrong, RICS chief executive, said: “The index is an unambiguous wake-up call to the property industry from its customers. Landlords and managing agents who take these findings on board and treat tenants as valued customers, will benefit.
“The best already do so. Good communication and partnering are becoming vital. Occupiers have increasingly sophisticated needs and all property professionals need to understand these.”
