Everyone from professional property managers and landlords who have been burned by delinquent paying tenants would recommend routine inspections for rental properties. In fact, judges have found landlords negligent for failing to conduct mid-lease inspections. Because checking up on the property can reduce property damage, and minimize income loss.

This checklist highlights what to look for during a routine property inspection:

Are there safety hazards? Look for items like disabled or malfunctioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, blocked access to windows or doors, open electrical components, shaky railings on stairs or balconies, space heaters, overloaded electrical outlets, and extension cords running under carpet or along walkways.

Who is living in the unit? It is important to check for unauthorized occupants. These are people who are not screened, are not on the lease, and yet have full access to the property. Not only can this cause problems when it comes to enforcing the lease, but in multifamily properties, unvetted residents pose a safety risk.

Are there any neglected repairs? Check items such as leaking faucets or toilets. Those conditions degrade quickly, and may cause serious damage. Tenants aren’t always good about contacting the landlord when things aren’t working right, largely due to the fear that the tenants will be blamed. Maintain a good relationship with tenants by thanking them when they point out something that needs your attention.

Outsourcing Property Inspections for Unmatched Accuracy and Impartiality1. Unbiased and impartial assessment: A third-party inspection company provides an objective and impartial assessment of the property's condition, free from any biases or conficts of interest. This ensures that the inspection report is fair and accurate, providing a reliable basis for decisions about maintenance, repairs, and disputes.