Rental property inspection laws are a pain, that’s for sure. But, they are incredibly crucial and useful since they allow you to identify any problems with the property before a move in and after a move-out. As a rental property owner, you must understand that there is more to moving a tenant than signing a lease or rental agreement. A comprehensive inspection before residents move in or out of your rental property will allow you to reduce or even avoid security deposit disputes. With all the features in rental properties, it can be overwhelming for landlords to keep track of every small issue during an inspection.
There’s a lot to cover when renting property and conducting an inspection. That is why finding a reputable and reliable property management company in Mesa, Arizona is a great idea. A local property management firm will thoroughly check the condition of each unit and take note of any issues or desirable features.
What is property inspection?
Property inspections are typically the evaluation of the overall condition of the property. The primary objective of a rental property inspection is to ensure that all features of a multi-unit apartment, condo or any other property are in reasonable and good working condition. It is also the best way for a landlord to ensure that property is habitable before a move in and an opportunity to get to know the tenant. While inspections are crucial, it is equally important to understand rental property inspection laws since too many inspections after a move in could be deemed as tenant harassment. In fact, to avoid landlord-tenant feuds, it is advisable to limit inspections unless during a move-out or when there are genuine repair and maintenance issues.
Reasons why you should conduct routine inspections
- Opportunity to increase property value
As a landlord never assume that your property is always in good condition. Make it a regular practice to undertake an inspection before showing your property to prospective tenants. An inspection prior a tenant viewing makes sense since potential renters also conduct an inspection of their own when they tour your property. Tenants want a home with desirable features. A house in perfect condition will naturally attract more tenants and have a high property value.
- Provides the chance to identify any repair and maintenance issues
Repairs and property maintenance should be the primary objective of an inspection. You not only get to spot obvious cries for attention but also get the opportunity to make repairs before minor problems develop to huge problems and spiral out of control. Any issue neglected can transform into your worst nightmare. It is standard practice for a majority of property owners to rely on tenants alone to report potential problems. Think and act out of the box. A set of fresh eyes during an inspection will allow you to pick up and correct minor and major problems before it is too late.
- Access tenant’s behavior and living conditions
While your property might be in good shape, the tenant’s lifestyle might not. Though your tenants might not be doing anything illegal, the fact that they are a potential threat to your property’s condition should help you consider whether or not to renew the tenancy. However, if your tenants are not doing anything illegal, you don’t have legal ground to evict.
- Spot illegal activities
Sadly, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by property management and relax when rent is paid always paid on time. However, it is widely known that complacency is a dangerous trap. If you feel like you are slipping into a mindset of a relaxed landlord, consider hiring property managers in Mesa. Property managers never slack off. They are thorough and know that some of the most destructive tenants pay on time to keep the property owner away so that they can carry out their illegal activities. Be extra vigilant and hire a professional property manager.
- Opportunity for landlord and tenant to bond
Your tenant is a valuable asset. Always value your relationship with your tenant. Regular inspections present you with an opportunity to get to know your tenants which directly correlates to a stress-free and profitable relationship. Residents are less likely to be irresponsible or pack and leave if they are happy with their landlord.
Guide to property inspection
1. Routine inspection checklist
Before you knock on your tenant’s door, have a list to help simplify the process. This will help you identify issues that you probably would have never found. A useful checklist should allow you to be in and out in less than fifteen minutes. Below are some of the things that your list must include:
- Lakes
- Mould and dampness
- Garden or outdoor condition
- Lofts and attics
2. Timeframes
Double check the fine print on Arizona landlord-tenant laws. Rental property inspection laws limit inspection timelines. Also, you don’t expect to knock on your tenant’s door in the middle of the night even if you provided an inspection notice.
3. Inspection notice
Arizona residential landlord-tenant laws clearly state that the landlord must provide a minimum two-day notice before an inspection. The fact that there are many rental property inspection laws makes it imperative to hire a property manager.
4. Respect
Ultimately, you must recognize and appreciate the tenant’s rights to live peacefully and feel that your property is their home. More often than not, residents comply with inspections, but only when it performed courteously. Some landlords often assume that since they are the owners of the property, they have complete access. This is not true. Therefore, be reasonable and respectful when carrying out an inspection and ensure that you adhere to rental property inspection laws.
Routine inspections help prevent damages before they get out of hand. The idea of DIY rental property inspection can be appealing. However, the actual process might not be as quick and easy as you might be lead to believe. To make an inspection more efficient, hire a property manager that offers comprehensive services including property inspection. So, why not let professional managers and experts do the heavy lifting and still reap the benefits?