I think landlords should have a responsibility to consider that tenants make their property their home. Not just a place to put a bed and a couch. Hiking the rent up on current tenants within or outside of the lease puts the tenant in a very difficult position. I think the cost of moving gets too often overlooked. Advertise a room at whatever price you want when you're looking for new tenants, you'll get what you get. But, be fair about rent increases when you have good, hassle free tenants already in your property. Greed put the world in a massive hole. Being more greedy won't dig us out of it.

I've read your post several times but still don't understand it

I've rented for the best part of 15 years and never had any issues either here or in the UK. No, or minimal, rent increases; things getting fixed quickly if I call up; deposits always returned. Maybe I'm just lucky.

My top tip would be to try and actually personally communicate with the landlord whenever possible. Renting directly from the landlord is ideal. If going through an agency is the only option, go for a smaller independent one who values their customers and build a good relationship with them, rather than the chain monstrosities who dont give a shit.

Perhaps we need some rental equivalent of a match making service! I would love to rent a decent house and have no worries about looking it after it, paying the rent on time and not giving the landlord any hassle. Just bored with unscrupulous landlords taking advantage. To be fair, current landlord is great but place I rent is more like a student squat than a proper home. But can't move 'cos I've got lovely neighbours

You don't understand it because you're a Saffa

Scotch! Long time no hablo. How's it hanging my JAWP friend?

Your not on your own, I think he's telling you that if you don't like tenants don't rent your property.

Good Zulu, I see you're still stirring it up