Routine Inspection making you nervous? How to prepare

Routine inspections are a cornerstone of effective property management, playing a crucial role in maintaining the quality and value of rental properties. A routine inspection, conducted periodically, ensure that the home remains in reasonable condition, considering wear and tear. As an agent who conducts an average 20 routine inspections a week, I hear far too many times how nervous tenants are for their inspection. This is not our intent nor how we want you to be feeling during the lead up to when we arrive. 

Firstly, it’s important to understand that these inspections are not about judgment but about ensuring the home is well-maintained. We respect that your rental property is your home, and our goal is to maintain a high level of satisfaction for both tenants and landlords. 

When preparing for an inspection, here’s what property managers typically look for:

General Cleanliness and Maintenance: 

During inspections, we assess the overall cleanliness and maintenance of the property. Regular upkeep, including daily tidying and weekly deeper cleans, is crucial. This involves tasks like vacuuming, mopping, and wiping surfaces. Additionally, maintaining outdoor areas such as lawns helps keep the property looking its best. A well-kept home not only looks better but also helps preserve the property’s value; in turn encouraging the landlord to sign recurring leases with you. 

Timely Reporting of Issues: 

One of the most important aspects of property maintenance is reporting issues promptly. This includes any problems with plumbing, appliances, or other systems. We might not catch every issue during our brief visit—usually just 10-15 minutes—so it’s crucial for tenants to inform us of any leaks or damages as soon as they occur and not just wait to tell us at the inspection. This is provided your property manager has educated you and given you all the accessible options to easily report maintenance. Small leaks can escalate into significant problems if not addressed quickly, so reporting them immediately allows us to arrange for professional repairs and prevent further damage. Here at One Agency Orange we use the TAPI system for maintenance, making it as easy as possible for tenants to report maintenance – All you have to do is scan the QR code in your property and follow the prompts. You can also submit a maintenance request here. 

Smoke Alarms: 

Smoke alarms are critical for safety and are required to be in working order as per legal compliance. Your property manager should ensure they are tested annually, and any issues such as beeping should not be resolved by removing the alarm or its batteries. Instead, notify your property manager immediately. We 

will arrange for a qualified tradesperson to fix the alarm, ensuring it meets all safety regulations. Many property managers have encountered unfortunate situations where smoke alarms were disabled, leading to serious consequences in case of a fire.

Pets: 

Pets are a beloved part of many households, but they can sometimes be anxious around strangers. If you know an inspection is coming up and your pet is not comfortable with unknown visitors, please ensure they are either outside or securely confined in a room during the inspection. Notify your property manager about the arrangement to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort during our visit. While many of us enjoy the company of friendly pets during inspections, it’s essential to ensure they are managed appropriately. 

Remember, our inspections are designed to ensure the property remains in excellent condition for your benefit and comfort. By maintaining general cleanliness, addressing maintenance issues promptly, and communicating effectively, you help create a smooth process that benefits everyone involved. 

Preparing for an inspection doesn’t mean turning your home into a showpiece but rather keeping it well-maintained and addressing any concerns as they arise. Ultimately, this approach supports a positive relationship between you, the landlord, and the property manager, ensuring a harmonious living environment and lasting satisfaction. We are here to support you and ensure your home remains a safe and comfortable place to live. 

Written by Amy Provost One Agency Orange, for more information contact us at 6362 9560 or rentals.orange@oneagency.com.au