Everything you need to know about routine inspections

Routine inspections are an important part of keeping your property in good condition at all times. It’s an effective way for your property manager to view any maintenance requests in person and check that your tenant is looking after your property. While your tenant probably isn’t deliberately letting things slide, a routine inspection can help make sure the often-forgotten jobs are done. In this article, we outline everything you need to know about routine inspections.

Timing

The legislation on when routine inspections should occur differs from state to state. Generally, a routine inspection should be carried out every three to four months, and you’ll need to give your tenant at least seven days’ notice. The form you need to complete and send will differ based on your location.

Maintenance and small repairs

Most agencies have a process for reporting maintenance and repair needs if the tenant won’t be home when the routine inspection occurs. Common maintenance and repair requests may include leaking taps and repairing fixtures such as ceiling fans. Tenant-specific areas to check include general cleanliness, mould in wet areas, and the condition of lawns. If something needs to be addressed, you can issue the tenant a ‘Notice to Remedy’. Tenants should generally be given 14 days to address any issues. If the issues aren’t addressed in 14 days, your next steps will depend on your state's legislation.

Bigger repair jobs

At the routine inspection, you or your property manager should also check areas of the property that can point to longer-term and more expensive repairs if these aren’t resolved quickly. You should check:

·         all locks are in working order

·         for water leaks in kitchens, laundries, and bathrooms

·         exhaust fans are working and free of dust

·         air-conditioning filters are clean

·         weatherboard, bricks and tiles for cracks and wear

·         the whole property for dampness or wood rot

·         for signs of termites or rust.

Routine inspections can sound tedious, but your property manager is used to doing these almost every day. By carrying out regular inspections at your property, you can ensure it’s always in top condition, and any repairs are completed quickly. You’ll enjoy the peace of mind that comes with having a property that’s always in good condition, so you can lease it quickly when it’s next available or sell it quickly when you’re ready to sell.

Remember, this article does not constitute financial or legal advice. Please consult your professional financial and legal advisors before making any decisions for yourself.