Here are seven top tips to ensure landlords don’t miss a thing when it comes to property inspections.
- By law, a landlord can’t just turn up unannounced – you must give at least 24 hours’ notice. Be reasonable and remember there are legal procedures to follow when booking an inspection.
- Have a systematic approach. Use a standardised form, and go from room to room, taking photos and notes.
- Don’t just look inside; ensure the tenant is maintaining the garden according to the rules set out in the rental agreement. Also, check pipework (inside and out), drains and electrical sockets.
- Test alarms and extraction fans.
- Ask the tenant if there is anything they want to discuss.
- Once you’ve completed your inspection, sign it and share it with the tenant (ask them to sign it, too).
- File the inspection so that you have a paper trail in case of a future dispute.
If you don’t have the time or expertise to conduct regular inspections, call us today.
