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Why should I treat a routine property inspection like an opportunity rather than a chore?

February 18, 2020

Every six months or so, your property manager will be required to conduct a routine inspection of your rented house or apartment. If you present the home as you would if family and friends were coming to dinner, you’ll be in good shape to land a lease renewal. 

A routine inspection enables your property manager to check on the condition of your rented property visually, and that you are following the terms outlined in your lease contract. The routine inspection allows the property manager to check the cleanliness of the property and if there is any damage, apart from regular wear and tear.

A Raine & Horne property manager will always pay you the respect that the apartment or house is your home. In this regard, there is no need to disinfect every nook and cranny. A neat and well-kept presentation is often enough for you to keep your end of the bargain. At the same time, while dirty dishes in the sink won’t count immediately against you, a clean kitchen and bathroom will send a message to your landlord via your Property Manager that you’re happy and are looking to stay. 

During my time as a Property Manager, I witnessed the extremes in rental property presentation. An unclean property for a routine inspection could well count against a tenant when the time arrives to discuss a lease renewal. So, if you treat the rented property like your own house or apartment, you’ll be in with a better chance of landing a renewal. 

It is often best practice for you to confirm the appointment for the inspection with the property manager and where possible, be at the review. If you can’t make the inspection, be sure your agent has a set of keys and if you have a pet, be sure to secure your pooch or moggy to ensure its safety. There have been plenty of occasions where animals have escaped during an inspection forcing the Property Manager to take off in pursuit. Also, if you have any repairs, the routine inspection is the time to report them. In most states and territories, you must report repairs. 

For more tips on preparing for a routine property inspection, contact your Raine & Horne Property Manager today.