Inspecting properties is part of a landlord’s job that most dread, and if it isn’t arranged properly the relationship between you and your tenants could deteriorate remarkably quickly. Unfortunately, the only way you can be sure your properties are being properly taken care of is to inspect them yourself every now and again, so what’s the best way of going about it?
Use your Tenancy Agreements
Before you let out a property make sure your tenancy agreement includes information on inspections so that they are clear right from the beginning. Four inspections per year is an agreeable amount as it means you are not constantly pestering your tenants yet will be able to keep an eye on your property at regular intervals. If you are renting out to students maybe change it so that the checks are performed at the beginning or end of each term – whatever you decide make sure you talk to your tenants about it before they move in so everyone is clear on the plans.
Plan the Inspection
Before you go to a tenants’ property you should have a list of everything you want to check which should include the appliances, wiring, smoke alarms, general state of the property and anything else you can think of. You should also call your tenant a week before your agreed date of the inspection to remind them and ask if there is anything they would like you to look at whilst you’re there. By knowing in advance of any problems you may be able to plan your inspection more thoroughly and figure out initial costs with your landlord insurance provider for maintenance and repairs.
Keep your Tenants in Mind
If you want your tenants to be polite and understanding when it comes to inspections you need to keep in mind that they are probably not thrilled to have you coming in to what they consider their home. To make the whole situation easier, make sure you always turn up on time and try to do the inspection as quickly as possible. If you do find problems with the property try to address these with your tenants in a calm and business-like manner so that you can resolve it quickly and then carry on with the rest of your day!
Inspections can be extremely stressful if they are not planned properly, and this can lead to some heated conversations with your tenants. Make sure that you try to work with your tenants as much as possible, but don’t be afraid to stand your ground when something is just not right!