Property inspections are an integral part of owning, managing, and occupying rental properties. Inspections are essential for both maintaining the rental property and developing a good tenant-landlord relationship. This allows both parties to be informed about the standards and conditions of the property. These inspections are not only crucial for rental properties, but for tenants, owners, and property managers. Everyone involved must have a firm understanding of all aspects. Below are the answers to some of the most common property inspection questions.
What is a property inspection?
A property inspection occurs when a property manager comes to the rental property to assess the interior and exterior condition of the home. The property manager will also note any damage that needs to be addressed by either the tenant or the management company. Many times, the inspection occurs while the tenant is present. This allows for easy communication of the results of the inspection and ensures that the tenant is well-informed about all standards for the property that must be met. This is also a time at which the tenant can notify the property manager of any damage or repairs that need to be fixed.
Why are they performed?
Property inspections are essential for ensuring that the property is within acceptable standards. Tenants, owners, and property managers all have a vested interest in keeping the property well maintained. Tenants are residents of the property and therefore reside in whatever condition the property is in. The owner has a financial commitment attached to the property and wants to ensure that their investment is performing well. The property manager works for the owner and is responsible for evaluating and maintaining the property for the owner.
When are they performed?
Property inspections are performed at various times throughout the lease of a tenant. The first inspection that occurs is the move-in inspection. The tenant and the property manager are present to walk through the property and note any damage to the home that the tenant will not be responsible for in the future. Routine inspections will occur periodically throughout the lease to ensure that the property is still in acceptable condition. These inspections are scheduled ahead of time whereas the tenant and the property manager are present. Once a tenant decides to move out of the property, a move-out inspection will be conducted. The move-out inspection will occur on the day the tenant vacates the property. This inspection occurs to assess any damage or repairs the tenant is responsible for fixing.
What happens during an inspection?
With all inspections that occur on a rental property, the property manager will give the tenant notice ahead of time. This allows for a time to be scheduled where both parties can be present and ensures that the tenant is prepared for the inspection. Another extremely common part of property inspections is for the tenant to be encouraged to be present. The tenant being present ensures that there are no breaks in communication about the property and what repairs or maintenance are needed.
What does not happen during an inspection?
Inspections can seem uncomfortable for both tenants and property managers since they are inspecting an area that has personal belongings and pictures. Property managers will always be respectful of personal property and will be as non-invasive as possible while checking all necessary areas. If necessary, the property management company takes photos and will make certain to avoid including any identifiable personal items in the photos. Property managers are also professionals who are trained to avoid conflict with tenants or other involved parties. These property inspections will help any tension between the tenant and the property manager and will lead to a solid relationship.
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