Importance of Routine Inspections: Why They are Important

One of the most important things a Landlord or Property Manager can do to avoid Property or Tenancy issues is to conduct regular routine inspections in line with current legislation. If you’re a landlord or even a Property Owner considering their first investment, we are pretty sure you have already heard of the nightmare scenarios that a small number of tenants can do. Whether it’s as major as building a drug lab or as simple as not reporting maintenance. Conducting regular routine inspections will help you check whether your tenants are doing the right thing, ensure your property is being taken care of and allow you to monitor ongoing maintenance concerns.

Why are Routine Inspections Crucial?

Conducting routine inspections not only protects the property itself, but it also ensures an open line of communication is maintained between the landlord, the tenant and the Property Manager. Routine inspections also allow the tenant to advise the Property Manager of any maintenance issues that arise or any concerns that they might have. This way, any issues can be assessed by the Property Manager in person to ensure that the right trade person is engaged to get the job done in an effective and cost efficient manner.

What should a good Property Manager be on the lookout for during routine inspections? 

• Cracked plaster/paint in walls or ceilings (indication of possible building movement)
• Mould growth and potential causes
• Signs of Rot or Termites/Other Pests
• Flooring stability (e.g. is it safe to walk on?)
• Property Security (ensuring all locks and doors are functional)
• Visible water damage or water marks
• Noticeable Plumbing Leaks
• Cracked or chipped windows
• Any exposed wiring, lighting or damaged switches and outlets
• Appliances, Hot Water Systems and Fixtures (Monitoring General Condition)
• Fences and Retaining Walls (Safety Liability)
• Overall Care of the Property

During each routine inspection, it is important for the Property Manager to document the condition of the property with written notes and photos. These documents and reports are also important to be kept on file for future rental references and to provide a timeline of any maintenance concerns.

What to do if the Routine Inspection is Unsatisfactory?

As things are not always perfect, there will be instances where you might find the Property in an unsatisfactory condition. Whether it’s generally untidy, there are unreported maintenance issues or the tenant has maliciously damaged the property and/or it’s fixtures – your Property Manager should be well trained in what to do next. For any small issues, a phone call to tenants with an email follow up can be enough to mitigate any future concerns. 

However, if conditions are severe enough to warrant a follow up inspection or further action, your Property Manager will be in touch with you to inform you of the next steps and seek your approval to proceed.

Protect and Increase your Asset Value

As mentioned previously, regular routine inspections help to identify maintenance issues or deterioration that could impact your property’s saleable or rentable value. This is an area that is often overlooked by investors. While income and yield is very important, a property’s sale value in case of a circumstance change, or mortgage value leverage for a future purpose is critical to grow a valuable investment portfolio. 

Poor property management will see your property deteriorate, good property management will ensure your property is maintained well, great property management will actually improve your property’s asset value.

For any questions you have about the process of how we conduct our routine inspections, or would like to consult with someone about your investment property, feel free to contact us and we will be happy to assist.