Regular property inspections are an essential part of the rental process, benefiting both landlords and tenants. At Climber Real Estate, we conduct thorough, professional inspections to ensure properties are well-maintained and that any issues are addressed promptly. This guide explains what to expect during inspections and how to prepare.
Types of Rental Property Inspections
1. Move-In Inspections
Before a new tenant moves in, we conduct a comprehensive inspection to document the property's condition. This establishes a baseline that will be used when the tenant eventually moves out.
During a move-in inspection, we:
- Take detailed photos of each room
- Document the condition of walls, floors, fixtures, and appliances
- Test all systems (plumbing, electrical, heating/cooling)
- Note any existing damage or wear
- Provide a copy of the inspection report to both the landlord and tenant
2. Routine Inspections
We typically conduct routine inspections every 3-4 months. These inspections allow us to:
- Identify maintenance issues before they become major problems
- Ensure the property is being well-maintained
- Verify compliance with the terms of the lease
- Document the ongoing condition of the property
Tenants will always receive at least 48 hours' notice before a routine inspection, as required by law.
3. Move-Out Inspections
When a tenant vacates the property, we conduct a thorough inspection to:
- Compare the current condition to the move-in inspection
- Identify any damage beyond normal wear and tear
- Determine what cleaning or repairs may be needed
- Assess whether any deductions from the security deposit are warranted
Tenants are encouraged to be present during the move-out inspection to discuss any findings directly.
What Landlords Look For During Inspections
During property inspections, our team pays particular attention to:
Maintenance Issues
- Plumbing leaks or dripping faucets
- Electrical problems
- HVAC system performance
- Signs of water damage or mold
- Structural concerns
- Appliance functionality
Property Care
- General cleanliness
- Proper waste disposal
- Lawn and garden maintenance (if applicable)
- Smoke detector functionality
- Pest control issues
Lease Compliance
- Unauthorized occupants
- Prohibited pets
- Unapproved modifications to the property
- Signs of smoking in non-smoking properties
- Other violations of lease terms
How Tenants Should Prepare for Inspections
To ensure a smooth inspection process, tenants should:
Before the Inspection
- Clean the property thoroughly
- Ensure all areas are accessible, including closets and storage areas
- Secure or remove pets during the inspection
- Make a list of any maintenance issues to discuss
- Plan to be present if possible (though not required)
Maintenance Reporting
Don't wait for an inspection to report maintenance issues. Prompt reporting helps prevent minor problems from becoming major repairs. Use our online maintenance request system to report issues as soon as they arise.
The Climber Difference
At Climber Real Estate, our inspection process is designed to be thorough yet respectful. We understand that a rental property is your home, and we conduct all inspections professionally and courteously.
Our inspection reports include:
- High-quality digital photos
- Detailed written observations
- Maintenance recommendations
- Follow-up actions and timelines
Both landlords and tenants receive copies of inspection reports, ensuring complete transparency in the process.
"The inspection process with Climber is so professional. They give plenty of notice, are respectful of our home, and always follow up promptly on any issues they find. It gives us peace of mind knowing our rental is being well looked after."
Questions About Property Inspections?
If you have any questions about our inspection process or would like to learn more about our property management services, please don't hesitate to contact us. Our team is here to help ensure a positive experience for both property owners and tenants.
