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Everything you need to know about Routine Inspections
over 3 years ago
Everything you need to know about Routine Inspections

Rental Inspection Checklist

During a routine inspection, the property manager will conduct a detailed rental inspection of the property and prepare an inspection report. This report will contain information about the condition of the property and any repairs or maintenance that are required.  

Here are some of the items that will be checked during a routine inspection:

  •     How tidy surfaces are
  •     The condition of the property
  •     The condition of the carpet
  •     The state of the house
  •     Whether light switches work properly
  •     The range hood and kitchen appliances are working correctly
  •     The rental safety measures are in place and working
  •     Whether the property is being maintained in good condition
  •     Whether urgent repairs or maintenance are required
  •     Whether the tenant is complying with their obligations under the tenancy agreement

The property manager will provide a copy of the inspection report to the property owners or landlord and the tenant. The report will also include any recommendations for repairs or  maintenance, and the landlord or property manager will be responsible for arranging these.

 

What are Routine Inspections?

Routine inspections are a vital part of managing rental property in Australia. A routine inspection is a periodic check of the rental property's condition to ensure that it is being properly maintained and that any repairs or maintenance are carried out on time. These inspections are conducted by the property manager on behalf of the landlord or rental provider.

The purpose of routine inspections is to protect the landlord's investment property by ensuring that the rental property is well-maintained and to identify any potential problems before they become more significant issues. Rental providers are responsible for ensuring that their properties are in good condition and meet safety standards, and routine inspections are an important way to check that everything is in order.

 

How Often Should Routine Inspections be Conducted in a Rental Property?

The legislation on when routine inspections should occur differs from state to state. They are usually conducted every 6 or 12 months, depending on the state or territory. Previous inspection reports will be used as a reference to check for any changes or issues that need to be addressed.

Landlords are required to give tenants a minimum notice period before conducting a routine inspection. This notice period is typically 7 days, but it can vary depending on the state or territory. It is essential to ensure that the tenant is informed about the upcoming inspection, and the landlord or rental provider must make reasonable efforts to arrange a mutually convenient time for the inspection.

The initial inspection is typically conducted before the tenant moves into the rental property, and the property manager will prepare a condition report. This report outlines the state of the property at the start of the tenancy, and it is used as a reference point for future inspections.  

 

The Role of Property Managers in Routine Inspections

A landlord property inspection is a routine inspection conducted by property managers to ensure that the property is being maintained following the rules relevant to the lease period.

During a rental inspection, property managers will inspect the rental property for any damages or repairs that need to be addressed. They will also check if the tenant is adhering to the rules of the lease agreement. Property managers will access all areas of the rental property, including bedrooms, bathrooms, living areas, and the kitchen.

 

What Happens During a Routine Inspection?

1. Written Notice and Specific Time

Before the property owner or their representative can conduct a property inspection, they must provide the tenant with written notice. This notice should include the specific date and time of the rental inspection and any instructions for the tenant, such as leaving the property clean and tidy.

2. Entry to the Property

During a routine inspection, the person conducting the inspection will need to enter the property. This entry may be via a front door, back door, or sliding door. In any case, the tenant is required to provide access to the property for the inspection to proceed.

3. Inspection of the Property  

Once inside the property, the person conducting the inspection will thoroughly inspect the property space. They will check for any damage, cleanliness issues, and any other issues that may violate the lease agreement or rental agreement.

4. Maintenance Problems

If maintenance problems are identified during the inspection, the property owner or their representative will note these issues in their report. These maintenance problems may include repair issues, such as a leaking tap, a broken window, or a faulty light fitting.

5. Rules Compliance

The person conducting the inspection will also ensure that the tenant is abiding by the rules set out in the lease agreement. This may include checking for unauthorised pets or additional occupants living in the property space.

6. Requesting Repairs

A routine inspection can be a good opportunity for the person conducting the inspection to note any repairs to be made to the property. Tenants can highlight any maintenance issues that they have identified, and the property owner or their representative can take steps to address these issues. You should, however, report any needed maintenance to your agent as soon as they become apparent.  

7. Completing the Inspection Report

Once the inspection is complete, the person conducting the inspection will complete an inspection report. This report will detail any maintenance issues or other issues identified during the inspection.

8. Next Inspection

The next inspection will be scheduled in the required timeframe by your agent. This is organised generally via email and regular reminders will be sent to the tenant to ensure clear communication. 

 

Common Issues Discovered During Routine Inspections

  •     Damage to walls, doors, and floors
  •     Dirty carpets and floors
  •     Leaking faucets and toilets
  •     Non-functioning smoke detectors
  •     Poorly maintained gardens and lawns
  •     Broken or malfunctioning sliding doors
  •     Unapproved modifications to the property

 

How Should Routine Inspection Findings be Addressed?

  •     Landlords or property managers should communicate with tenants about the issues discovered
  •     Arrange for repairs or replacements to be made as soon as possible
  •     Ensure the property is safe and complies with its own regulations
  •     Keep a record of previous inspections to monitor any recurring issues
  •     Discuss any rent adjustments with the tenant before implementing
  •     Conduct routine inspections regularly to identify and address issues early on

 

What this means for you

Routine inspections are essential for maintaining the safety and functionality of a property. Whether you are a landlord, tenant, or homeowner, understanding the purpose and process of routine inspections is crucial. By conducting regular inspections, potential issues can be identified and addressed before they become more significant problems that are more difficult and expensive to fix.

It is important to remember that routine inspections are not just about ensuring that the property is in good condition. They are also an opportunity to build a positive relationship between tenants and landlords or homeowners, to improve communication, and to foster a sense of accountability

 

More Resources

At Hills Direct Real Estate, we offer a variety of resources to help tenants navigate the rental market.

If you're looking to rent, check out our tips for real estate tenants to help you find the perfect rental property for your needs. Our guide will walk you through the rental process, from searching for properties to signing a lease agreement.

We also provide a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a rental property, which includes everything you need to know about the application process, required documentation, and how to increase your chances of getting approved.