Rental inspections are required when you’re a Colorado Springs landlord who wants to keep their property well-maintained and in good condition. During a tenancy, you also want to take the opportunity to talk with your tenants and make sure they’re happy in their home. Any good rental property inspection will be thorough and detailed.
What you inspect will depend on your reason for being at the property. However, whether you’re doing a move-in inspection or a turnover, there are a few areas that belong on every inspection checklist.
Check for Leaks, Water, and Plumbing Issues
Water can do damage to a property faster than almost any other problem, and the sooner you catch the issue – the more luck you’ll have in resolving it quickly and affordably. A toilet that’s flushing funny might seem like no big deal until you have a problem with the septic system. A simple dripping faucet can turn into a major leak under the sink that causes rot and mold.
During your inspection, look for areas where water might be getting inside the house from the outside. Spots on walls and ceilings may indicate that a pipe is leaking somewhere. Check the floors and shelves under bathroom and kitchen sinks, check tubs and toilets, and make sure you don’t have any water coming in where it shouldn’t.
Inspect for Signs of Deferred or Unreported Maintenance
Rental inspections help you avoid deferred maintenance problems, so take this opportunity to ensure there aren’t any repairs or replacements needed at the property. When you’re conducting a move-in inspection, make sure the home is ready for occupancy.
Everything must be functioning the way it is meant to. Check each electrical outlet, turn on all the lights, and run the appliances. Make sure the doors and windows are locking and check light bulbs, air filters, and smoke detectors.
Check Your Colorado Springs Rental Home for Safety Issues
A good rental inspection checklist will include looking for safety and habitability issues. Make sure the doors and windows lock properly. Check smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and any security systems that are installed. Look for sufficient exterior lighting and handrails on stairs or outside. If you have a pool, check the fence. Your parking lot, driveway, and walkways are free of debris and trip hazards.
Use Inspections to Enforce Your Lease Agreement
During routine maintenance inspections, make sure your tenant is following the lease. This is a good time to look for unauthorized pets and people. Check for evidence of smoking or illegal activity. Inspections are a good time to make sure everyone is doing what’s required of them, and it’s also a good opportunity to check in with your tenants. Make sure they’re happy, and find out if there’s anything you can do to make their rental experience better.
These are just a few of the things you should include on your rental property inspection checklist whenever you’re inside your Colorado Springs rental property. If you’d like to hear more or you need help with your own inspections, please contact us at Muldoon Associates.
