Sir, - I write following the recent spate of letters you have published from tenants criticising landlords. I speak as a landlord and I consider the benefits that the majority of us provide are far reaching.
We own a Georgian building that is over 225 years old. It is rented out and used as offices and private accommodation. The cost of upkeep on the building is onerous to say the least, but it is well-kept and serviced by an army of tradesmen.
Is it not right that the owners of properties be fairly recompensed if their tenants live in a well-maintained building, with the landlord on call to solve all their problems? Landlords help by providing accommodation to those who either don't want the hassle of owning a home, or are unable to afford one at the time.
Why are we seen as the ogre in most cases? There are actually some of us out there who provide a valuable service, but are regularly criticised by a minority of people who have had bad experiences. Can we not strike a balance in the future? - Yours, etc.,
Oscar K. Mooney, Pembroke Street, Dublin 2.