If you're a landlord, you know the feeling:
You rent an apartment to someone and never enter it for years. When they move out, you won't know what to expect when you walk inside the unit.
This isn't a good feeling, but you can prevent "the unknown." The solution? Perform rental property inspections.
Rental property inspections allow you to see the units more frequently. Continue reading to learn how often you should perform these.
When Tenants Move Out
Every time someone moves out of a unit, you must inspect it. The unit might need some minor repairs and updates. It could also need some major renovations.
You should perform this inspection right after a tenant moves out. You should also avoid returning their security deposit until you know the unit's condition.
After all, you can keep the security deposit if the tenant destroys the unit.
When handling this inspection, use a rental property inspection checklist. This checklist helps you make a list of the work the unit needs. Then, work on it to prepare it for the next tenant.
When Tenants Move In
When a new tenant signs a lease, you'll give them the unit's keys. When doing this, perform another rental property inspection.
This inspection safeguards you as a landlord. The tenant can point out any issues they find with the unit for documentation purposes.
It also gives you the chance to fix things you might have missed while preparing the apartment.
Annually
Landlord duties include maintaining properties. Annual inspections help you complete this task.
Some tenants might live in their units for several years or longer. If you never enter the units, you won't know their conditions.
So, plan on performing annual inspections. This is the minimum rental property inspection frequency to follow.
Of course, you must know Texas's rental property inspection laws to ensure you follow them. One is that you must notify the tenant before entering the unit, so be sure to do this first.
Annual inspections give you details about the apartment's condition. You can then decide if it needs updates, remodeling, or repairs.
You can also use this time to handle routine maintenance, such as replacing smoke detector batteries.
Suspected Problems
Finally, contact the tenant to schedule an inspection if you suspect problems. For example, you should inspect it if other tenants complain of noise, odors, or other issues.
You can always sub this duty out to a property management firm. The property manager will handle the inspections for you and all the other duties you must complete.
Perform Rental Property Inspections to Monitor Units
Rental property inspections are crucial for your business. They help you keep the units in excellent condition. They also help you find problems before they become severe.
Do you need help with this task?
Blue Ribbon Property Management is the company to hire!
We aim to improve the lives of property owners by providing high-quality services and innovative strategies. Our team of professionals can help you find better tenants and care for your properties in the best ways.
Feel free to reach out to learn more about our services in College Station, TX.
