Buyer inspections and home appraisals are not the only instances when inspecting a property is warranted. When you own rental properties, it's important to know what's going on inside them.
At PMI, we recommend performing rental property inspections at least once a year. In some cases, these may be move-out or move-in inspections. If a tenant decides to renew their lease, however, you should still schedule a routine inspection at some point during their leasing term.
How can you perform better rental property inspections and what should you know about the process? Read on to find out.
Why Rental Property Inspections Matter
With Texas evictions on the rise, it's becoming increasingly important that property owners know how tenants are treating their properties. Often, catching tenant negligence or damage early can curb unwanted behavior.
Inspections also provide a chance to expertly assess a property's condition. For example, tenants may not know the hidden signs of a plumbing issue or foundation damage. A thorough inspection makes it possible to practice better preventative maintenance.
Creating Property Maintenance Expectations for Tenants
Tenants do have several protections in place to prevent unexpected intrusions into their homes. To ensure cooperation during an inspection, make sure to include inspection dates in your lease. In the days or weeks before an inspection is due, notify your tenants to remind them.
You should also use your lease to outline your expectations. You may want to include language about:
- Basic cleanliness
- Trash removal
- Unpermitted actions (e.g., painting or putting holes in the walls)
- Filter changes for the HVAC system or fridge
- Lawn care, if relevant
You should also use a tenant portal to make maintenance requests simple. The clearer your expectations are, the easier it is for tenants to meet you halfway in maintaining your property.
What to Look for During an Inspection
When you're performing a routine property inspection, try to respect a tenant's privacy as much as possible. You're not there to investigate their personal belongings. Instead, you're there to inspect structural elements including:
- Walls and insulation
- Plumbing and electrical wiring
- Landlord-owned appliances
- Roof
- Foundation
- Heating and cooling systems
If you notice any problems that require a professional assessment or repair, communicate with your tenant. For example, if you suspect that a specific outlet isn't safe to use, let them know which one it is and ask them not to use it until it is repaired. Work together to find a timeline that works best for your tenant without compromising their safety or the property's condition.
Need Help With Property Maintenance? Call PMI North Texas
Clear leasing language, tenant portals, and tenant notification can all go a long way toward protecting your property from damage. Conducting annual rental property inspections is just one step in a longer process that will improve your ROI and your tenant's experience. PMI North Texas is here to help.
At PMI North Texas, we know that every landlord is unique. That's why we offer customizable property management services with real-time investment tracking. Contact us today to learn more about our approach.
