As a landlord, you’re legally responsible to keep the property habitable. So to ensure your property remains an investment, you’ll want to perform a yearly inspection. This will help you identify maintenance issues before they become serious problems, ensure tenants are following lease terms, and check on the overall condition of the home.
You have a legal right to inspect your property while it’s occupied with tenants as long as your reasons comply with state law and you give proper notice to your tenants. It’s also a good idea to build annual inspections into your lease agreement.
Rental Inspection Checklist
Before you perform your inspection, you’ll want to have a checklist handy to make sure you don’t forget anything. Also, keep records of your inspections, including notes, pictures, and dates to serve as legal documents in case something happens to your rental property.
- Inspect major appliances
- Check under sinks for water damage
- Check HVAC filters
- Inspect fire extinguishers
- Check smoke detectors
- Check the overall condition and cleanliness
- Inspect the roof
- Inspect toilets
- Inspect door seals
- Inspect windows and seals
- Inspect for signs of pests
Also, remember to give your tenants proper notice before entering the property for an inspection. This is required by state law.
Professional Property Management
Owning a rental property can be a lucrative investment but it comes with a lot of work, especially when you manage it yourself. If you own a rental property, but find it challenging to manage, hiring a property management company like Zenith Properties NW can be helpful. Our team takes care of everything from tenant screening and marketing to property inspections and repairs. To learn how we can help you, give us a call today or fill out our convenient online form!
What to Look For During a Rental Inspection
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