There are a few important reasons for why you need a professional inspection of your rental property prior to people moving in.

Repairs and Maintenance

An inspection will alert you to any repairs or maintenance work that need to be done. When the property is in excellent shape, it makes you look good to your tenants. People moving into a new home want a place that is clean and functional. Your inspection is an opportunity to make sure all the appliances are working and that the plumbing and electrical systems are performing the way they should. You don’t want your tenants to have problems the first night they’re living there. It’s much better to spend the time resolving any potential problems up front.

Documenting Condition

After your tenants have lived in the home for a year or longer, you want to get it back from them in the same condition that they received it. An inspection prior to move in will help you document the condition of the property. This will help you manage any security deposit disputes. When you conduct inspections at the beginning of a tenancy and the end of a tenancy, you’ll be able to explain why you kept any of the security deposit funds. You can demonstrate any damage or lack of care.

Setting Expectations

Inspecting the house before you rent it will show tenants what you are offering. It helps you to state the rules and expectations of the tenancy. This ensures there are no misunderstandings and everyone knows what they are moving into and how they are expected to maintain the property. Your tenants will know how you expect the place to look when they move out.

If you have any questions about the importance of professional inspections before your tenants move in, please contact us at Stokley Properties and we’d be happy to help you.