An unauthorized tenant can cause damage, increase utility costs, or worse. Unauthorized tenants – Tenants may move in a significant other or sublet a room or the entire property without the landlord’s permission.Pets are known to cause damage to rental units and without the proper security deposit, it can get expensive. Unauthorized pets – If the lease doesn’t allow for pets or the tenant did not pay a pet deposit, this can be a serious violation.Throughout the inspection, landlords should be watching for any lease violations including:
Landlords should ensure nothing is broken or loose.
While each state has its own rules, landlords need to ensure common features including maintaining heat, hot water, plumbing, and utilities are working properly. Habitability – Landlords must maintain a habitable unit (called the warranty of habitability).Overall condition of the property – Landlords need to carefully inspect the walls, floors, and ceilings for any major damage or signs of a larger issue such as a water spot.When looking at the interior of the rental unit, landlords should take note of: This helps to ensure the property is in good condition, well maintained, no excessive damage has occurred, and the tenant is following the rules of the lease. Landlords should look at all areas of the unit. What Should a Landlord Look at During an Inspection? After completing the move-out checklist, the landlord can determine how much, if any, of the security deposit will be withheld for repairs. Move-out inspection – The landlord and tenant can compare the move-in condition to the unit’s current condition.Drive-by Inspection – The landlord views the outside of the property to ensure it is being properly maintained per the lease rules such as the lawn being mowed, trash disposed of properly, or no junked/excessive vehicles on the premises.Move-in Inspection -The landlord and tenant look at the current condition of the unit, discuss any tenant responsibilities, and complete a move-in checklist.Routine inspection – The landlord looks over all areas of the home to ensure the property is being properly maintained, the lease rules are being followed, and identifies any areas that require maintenance or repairs.Landlords need to complete rental inspections for various reasons including: There is no evidence of major issues like mold, pests, rodents, or other vermin.The property doesn’t need repair or have any serious damage.The tenant is following the lease rules and properly maintaining the property.Regular inspections help to ensure the following: Why Do Landlords Have Inspections?Ī rental property is a large investment for the property owner. Landlords are generally not allowed to look through private areas, such as a dresser or closet. They’ll look in every room and ensure that everything is in working order. Landlords are allowed to inspect most areas of a rental property, inside and out.