Overall renters pay a whopping $485 billion in rent every year.
One of the most important responsibilities of a landlord is to conduct rental property inspections. This is to ensure that property maintenance is done promptly if needed and to inspect the property as a whole before a new tenant moves in.
Even if you have tenants that have never caused any trouble it's a great practice to conduct inspections on your rental properties in Florida. This will help you avoid larger problems in the future.
Below you'll find a brief guide about some key components of a rental property inspection and the different types of inspections performed by landlords.
Types Of Property Inspections
As mentioned there are several types of property inspection with the first being a move-in inspection. This is an inspection performed before a tenant is officially allowed to move into the property.
It's important to use a checklist as you conduct the walkthrough and if there are any issues noticed they should be documented on this form. If you find damage as you check the property take photos and then once the inspection is complete have the tenant sign and date the document.
Another type of inspection is a move-out inspection, which happens before a tenant vacates the property. This is to assess any damages or other issues charged to the tenant's account.
Other inspections include routine and drive-by. Each inspection serves a different, but important purpose. Now here are some dos and don'ts of performing a rental property inspection.
Give Notice
Before you enter any property it's important to give your tenants notice before. Not only is this a common courtesy, but it's also the law.
If you're unsure of the laws in your area you can always speak with your legal team to ensure you're remaining within compliance at all times and not infringing on your tenant's rights.
After you've given notice encourage tenants to be present during the inspection so they can point out any issues or problems they might be having with the property.
Remain Professional
There are going to be times when you're dealing with tenants that are less than ideal, but that doesn't mean you act unprofessionally. As landlords, you need to take pride in the job you do and remember this at all times.
Even if the tenant is attempting to become confrontational or you notice there is significant damage around the property that wasn't there before don't address it. Problems should be addressed in written form so that there is a record of it on file versus being addressed verbally.
Respect Tenant Privacy
When you notice damage you'll need to photograph it to have it on file for future reference. When you're taking these photos always respect the privacy of the tenant.
This means don't take pictures of their personal belongings and only photograph the areas that are needed.
Rental Property Inspections 101
When you're conducting rental property inspections you need to pay attention to every inch of the property. If something is wrong make a note of it and address it in the rental form, but don't forget to have the tenant sign the document confirming they're aware of potential damages.
Need help filling one of your properties or want to find other needed resources for landlords contact Verandah Properties and let us help you.