Owning a rental property in Brevard County comes with certain duties and responsibilities, not the least of which is ensuring the safety and well-being of your tenants. Of course, this means inspections are an essential task of any landlord or property manager. Regular inspections help to ensure that your rental property is maintained and that problems are identified before they become costly to resolve. Put simply; inspecting your rental property can help make sure your investment stays in good condition and remains profitable for many years.
In this article, we’re taking a look at why property inspections are important and how regularly they should be done.
Why Are Property Inspections Important?
Whether you are a landlord or a property manager, regular property inspections can protect your tenants and safeguard your investment. Property inspections can also be used as documentation of a rental property’s condition if needed to settle a dispute over damage or furnishing a security deposit.
There are several instances when you should make time to perform a thorough property inspection on your rental property, including:
- Before a new tenant moves in
- After a departing tenant leaves
- Periodically throughout the year — especially if there is expected seasonal maintenance
Keep reading for more information about the best times to complete a property inspection.
Move-in Inspection
Before your new renter takes possession of your rental property, be sure to walk through the home and make a note of any existing damages. It’s important to do a thorough inspection and document in writing, as this can help settle any potential legal disputes between you and the tenant. In addition, it will make it easier to determine who is responsible for any damages that do occur — outside of natural wear and tear!
In addition to accompanying your new tenant on a walkthrough, it’s also a good idea to provide your tenants with a rental inspection checklist that they should complete within 24 hours after move-in day. Better yet, ask your trusted property manager to provide your tenant with an inspection list to complete.
Move-out Inspection
When your tenant moves out, it’s crucial to schedule an inspection with them before keys are exchanged, and the security deposit is returned. Performing a move-out inspection enables you to document any damage to the property. It’s beneficial also to have a copy of the move-in inspection for comparison. If any repairs are needed, you can use the inspection report to document and deduct the total cost from the security deposit.
Seasonal Inspections
Even after your new tenant is moved in and settled, it’s still important to conduct periodic property inspections to ensure everything is in good working order, such as fire detectors and AC units. This is especially important when the seasons change; for example going into the colder or more rainy months, it’s the perfect time to clear gutters and check the roof for any leaks. Likewise, it’s a good idea to schedule maintenance on AC units before the hot summer months begin. Taking the time to address small issues can save you a lot of money and stress in the long term.
Property Rentals In Brevard County
If you own a rental property in Brevard County, Rent In Brevard Property Management can help you maximize your rental income and protect your investment. Our licensed and experienced property managers are dedicated to offering the best service in Brevard County — leveraging decades of experience managing Brevard County rentals. Our full-service management style is tailored to fit your needs. Whether you’re an out-of-town investor or a local landlord, our diverse range of support services ensures that your property is in good hands. Contact us today to learn more about our property management services.
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