Landlords aren't like most other investors, who watch stock graphs and judge companies. Their investments are with actual property — which can face real damage and have its value fall. Getting your investment regularly inspected is a way to protect yourself and it.
To inspect it well, you need to have a rental property inspection checklist. This will help guide you through the whole inspection process, keeping you and your teams focused. It also simplifies the process, making it easier to communicate.
And to learn how to create a list for inspecting properties, keep reading below!
Prepare an Actual Rental Property Inspection Checklist
The first step when inspecting your property after a tenant leaves, of buying a new property, is to make sure it meets your expectations. Chances are you don't have the time to inspect every corner of a place. So, it's best to prepare a clear list of expectations for your property.
Having a clear list of things you will inspect helps improve communication with tenants. It shows them the most important things on the property. It also enables you to delegate inspection work.
When workers have a list of things to look at, you're guaranteed to have a thorough inspection every time. You can just hand off a list to your maintenance crew or your management company and let them do the work!
Start At The Bottom, Inspect the Floors
Anywhere a person lives, you can expect something to be dropped on the floors. It's a natural part of daily life — milk spills, books fall, and worse can happen. Most of the time, your floors can handle whatever people throw at them.
But, that's not true all the time and accidents can leave lasting damage on your property. Spilled wine can stain carpet for years, and warped floors can lower your property's value. That's why it's important to inspect your property's floors to make sure it is still top-notch.
Don't Overlook Your Appliances
While it's important to inspect walls and floors, you should make sure to also make sure all of your appliances are in working order. Your fridge should reach a specific temperature, your oven should heat well and any washing or drying machines should work.
It's important to make sure your thermostats work, as well as anything else connected to your HVAC system. If you overlook these appliances, your tenants will definitely notice over the summer!
And if you notice something is wrong with an appliance, don't fret! Sometimes, damage may be covered under insurance plans or warranties. Make sure to reach out immediately if you notice damage so that it can be fixed quickly!
Always Get a Rental Property Inspection
As a landlord, you've made a huge investment and have dedicated your whole job to taking care of your property. Part of doing your job means knowing how to do a rental property inspection, so it still has value. And doing that means preparing a rental property inspection checklist.
Skipping out on an inspection can have devastating consequences for you and your business. You can end up having to pay thousands of dollars in repairs. The best way to avoid that is to reach out to professionals.
For that, we're here. Just reach out to us and we will look over every part of your rental property!
