Property inspections aren’t very convenient for anyone — property managers or residents. Despite that, they’re very necessary, and you’ll need to conduct them. Problems can arise even when you have great residents, and if you’re not conducting regular inspections, you could miss them until it’s too late. With that in mind, here’s our quick guide to some of the most commonly asked questions about property inspections.
Why do I need to conduct property inspections?
As we mentioned, property conditions deteriorate and damage occurs to all properties, even if it’s not the resident’s fault. It’s vital that you’re aware of such problems as soon as possible — problems can easily get much bigger if they’re not identified and corrected quickly. Regular property inspections allow you a chance to see trouble early on and prevent it from becoming a bigger issue.
Also, while property inspections may not be fun for residents, they’re beneficial as well. Residents certainly don’t want a small problem to turn into a big one that makes living in the unit difficult or impossible, and they don’t want any surprise charges when it’s time to move out. Inspections help prevent those situations from arising for your residents.
How often should I inspect my properties?
Unfortunately, there’s not necessarily one easy answer to this question; it depends on your properties and your residents. What we can definitely tell you is that annual inspections probably aren’t enough, and you should look to conduct inspections more frequently than that. Some property managers conduct them semi-annually; others opt for quarterly inspections. What’s most important is adopting a schedule that works for you, your properties, and your residents, and sticking to it.
Is it possible to inspect my properties too frequently?
Yes, definitely! Your residents have the right to what’s called quiet enjoyment of their homes, and your inspections can’t be so frequent that they interfere with that right. If your inspections are deemed to be excessive, your residents may have the right to deny you entry — even if you own the property. This will also be the case if you don’t give proper notice of your intention to conduct an inspection. What constitutes proper notice can vary by jurisdiction, so make sure you’re familiar with your local laws on this topic.
What kind of things should I look for during a property inspection?
You should check for things like leaks and water damage, window seal condition, appliance condition, and evidence of bugs or other pests. While you’re there, you can also take a look around and get a general feeling for the overall cleanliness and condition of the property. Additionally, it’s the perfect time to do things like change furnace filters and test the smoke detectors. All of these things are key aspects of preventive care that will help you, your properties, and your residents in the long run.
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