You've just invested in a rental property, envisioning a steady stream of income and long-term wealth. But as you hand over the keys to your first tenant, a nagging question arises: How do you protect your investment without becoming the dreaded overbearing landlord?
That's where property inspections come in.
Let's go through how to do proper rental property inspections.
Give Advance Notice
One of the most important steps in conducting a rental property inspection is providing advance notice to your tenants. Not only is this a legal requirement in most jurisdictions, but it also helps to build trust and keep up a good relationship with your tenants.
Advance notice also allows tenants to tidy up and address any minor issues themselves before the inspection, which can lead to a more efficient and smooth inspection process.
Clearly communicate the purpose of the inspection, the areas you intend to inspect, and the expected duration of your visit.
This transparency helps tenants feel more comfortable and prepared for the inspection, reducing the likelihood of any misunderstandings or conflicts. You can deliver the notice in writing via email, a physical letter, or through a property management portal.
Have a Landlord Inspection Checklist
By using a standardized checklist, you can maintain consistency across inspections, making it easier to track the property's condition over time and document any changes or areas of concern.
Your inspection checklist should be comprehensive, covering both the interior and exterior of the property. For the exterior, include:
- Roof condition
- Gutters
- Windows
- Doors
- Landscaping
Check closely for any damage, wear, or potential hazards.
For the interior, focus on key areas:
- Walls
- Ceilings
- Floors
- Plumbing fixtures
- Appliances
- HVAC system
Don't forget to test smoke detectors and other safety devices, as these are critical to tenant safety and compliance with local regulations.
Hire Property Management
Professional property management companies bring expertise, experience, and a systematic approach to the inspection process, ensuring that no detail is overlooked.
This is particularly beneficial for landlords who own a few properties or live far away from their Fayetteville rental units, as managing inspections can become time-consuming and logistically challenging.
They handle the necessary communication with tenants, providing proper notice and explaining the purpose of the inspection, which can help maintain a positive tenant-landlord relationship. These experts can reduce the likelihood of disputes and ensure that inspections are completed smoothly and efficiently.
Document Everything
By meticulously recording the condition of your property during each inspection, you create a valuable record that can be used to track changes over time, resolve disputes, and demonstrate compliance with legal requirements.
Take detailed notes during the inspection. In addition to written notes, photographs and videos are crucial. Visual records provide concrete evidence of the property's condition, making it easier to compare the state of the property across different inspections.
Ensure your photos are clear and well-lit, capturing key areas from multiple angles.
Rental Property Inspections: Start Today
There's so much that goes into pulling off rental property inspections. Use these property maintenance tips, and you won't have any issues!
Are you looking for Fayetteville property management? Allred Properties has been setting the standard in Northwest Arkansas for over 25 years.
Contact us today.