As a landlord, or property owner, it is your responsibility to keep your property in good condition and up to code for your tenants. Part of this involves regular property inspections and making any necessary repairs for any maintenance issues. But what should you expect to be looking for during a property inspection walk through? Here are some things:
Walls
Check the condition of the walls, ceilings, and floors. Look for any cracks, holes, or water damage. If you find any damage, make sure to repair it as soon as possible.
Flooring
There are a number of common flooring issues that landlords may encounter during a property inspection, including damage from normal wear and tear, stains or water damage, cracks or holes in the flooring material, and discoloration.
Appliances
Inspect all of the appliances in the unit. Make sure that they are in good working condition and that there are no signs of wear and tear. If any appliances need to be replaced, make sure to do so before the next tenant moves in.
Electrical
Test all of the outlets and light fixtures in the unit. Make sure that they are working properly and that there are no loose or faulty wires.
Windows & Doors
Take a look at the windows and doors in the unit. Some common things to check for are sealing, drafts, cracks and gaps, damage from weather or ordinary wear and tear, and problems with hardware such as broken locks or damaged frames. If you find any problems, make sure to repair them before the next tenant moves in.
Plumbing
Inspect the plumbing fixtures in the unit. Make sure that there are no leaks or clogs. If you find any problems, make sure to fix them right away.
Landscaping
If the property is a house, see if there's any overgrown or damaged vegetation, weeds or pests in the yard. The lawn can also have aesthetic problems such as patches, holes, or dead spots. Check outdoor structures such as fences, walkways, and driveways for damage as well.
Signs of Pests
Some common signs of pests to look out for on a rental property include damage to walls, ceilings, and floors; holes or other openings in the exterior walls or foundation; droppings or nesting materials in hidden areas such as cabinets, closets, and under furniture; and unusual sounds such as scurrying noises, scratching sounds, or buzzing. If you notice any of these signs, you may need to call an exterminator to get rid of the pests.
What To Do If You've Found That Your Renters Caused Damage
There are a variety of types of damage that landlords can take legal action against tenants for, including structural damage to the property, water leaks or clogs, broken appliances and fixtures, electrical issues, and more.
Landlords may also be able to take legal action if a tenant fails to maintain the property in a clean and sanitary manner, causes property damage, or hasn't made rent payments, or otherwise violates their lease agreement. If you are a landlord facing issues with renters, it is important to seek legal counsel in order to understand your rights and options under the law.