You have a great tenant in your rental. Things are going well with your amazing property manager. So, why would you want to check up on things on the property? Wouldn’t that insult the tenant who’s been exemplary so far?
Actually, no. Periodic inspections help you, as the owner, and the renter. They can nip problems in the bud before they get worse.
There are numerous reasons to conduct periodic inspections of your rental properties, regardless of how long the tenants have been good renters.
1. Safe Environment for Tenants
Your duty as a property owner is to provide a safe environment for your tenants. Periodic inspections ensure you’re holding up your end of the bargain (and protecting your investment). That means all major appliances are in safe, working order; security measures are still effective, and emergency notifications like smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are functional. So yes, fire prevention is on the list of important considerations.
2. Find Signs of Damage Early
While not exactly an ounce of prevention, periodic inspections can uncover problems before they become disasters. A few water spots on a ceiling below an upstairs bathroom can identify a small water leak before it becomes a major problem. Detecting early signs of a pest problem can mitigate full-blown termite destruction. Sometimes, these subtle signs aren’t something a renter would even notice yet.
3. Confirmation of Proper Tenant Maintenance
Not saying you don’t trust them, but some tenants need a bit of reminding of their responsibilities. Overgrown weeds, filthy (not just messy) kitchens, telltale signs of hoarding… these should all be addressed early as reminders. This is your investment. You put a lot of money into it, and they signed an agreement to respect your property during their stay. For example, it doesn’t take a lot of effort to change the air conditioner filter, but it’s part of the lease they signed.
4. Identify Upgrade Opportunities
A common scenario: a renter has been in a unit for a few years. They always pay on time, submit requests for repairs in a timely fashion, and perform all agreed upon maintenance. Some landlords would say: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” This attitude is short-sighted. Periodic inspections can show a worn carpet that could use replacing in the coming months or an aging kitchen appliance whose life is nearly up. By taking stock, you can budget for these projects and upgrades now, instead of having to address a laundry list at renter move-out time. Bonus: your current tenant will appreciate the upgrades now!
5. Minimize Move-Out Damage
Rental property is both a short- and long-term investment. Performing a periodic inspection shows the tenant that the property manager is keeping tabs on the condition of the home. You want to be sure it’s being properly cared for. In our experience, homes with periodic inspections typically have less damage upon move-out.
Bottom Line
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