Property inspections is mandatory in the rental industry. As such, property managers and landlords need to make regular check-ups to ensure the property is correctly maintained. However, how do you know how often to go? Most renters know that inspections will occur during their tenancy, but they’re cautious of them. Some tenants believe it’s an excuse for landlords to find anything wrong in order to keep their security deposit. Try to create a trusting relationship with your tenants from the beginning but also create boundaries on what’s expected when it comes to inspections.
In Ontario, property inspections can be performed up to 3 times a year. It can even be performed quarterly as long as it is complies with the tenancy laws applicable to the situation. However, if you want to keep your tenants happy long-term, once a month might seem too much. Here are some tips on how often you should consider doing a property inspection.
1) Move In/Move Out Process
When a tenant moves in, it’s important to walk through the property together to see the current condition of the place. Be sure to take photos and keep an inventory or condition report of the home. Make sure your tenant(s) sign off on it and they get a copy so everyone’s on the same page.
When it’s time for them to move out, your condition report will come in handy to make sure the property is left exactly how it was when the renters moved in. By providing the move-in photos and condition report, you have a higher chance of your tenants taking better care of your investment.
2) Check In Early
Usually issues arise in the first 6 months of a tenancy, so it is important to establish early on whether this may be the case so check in with your tenants at the 3-month mark. This is the best time to stress any issues that you may have. Perhaps they don’t take care of the hardwood floors well or there are small holes in the walls. Be clear about what needs to be fixed and how to properly maintain the property. Schedule another visit after a few weeks to check that things have improved.
3) Maintenance needs
Once you’re happy with how your tenants are caring for your investment, limit your check-ups to 1-3 times a year. If it’s a long-term tenancy, once a year is plenty to check that things are up to snuff, otherwise, consider every 6 months. Also, make sure your tenants know to come to you with any issues like pest infestations or major repairs that need to be done. The more transparent you are, the more trusting they’ll be.
If doing this yourself seems like too much work or if you need to brush up on the current laws, get in touch with us at McQueen's Management. We’ll take care of your investment from before move-in to move-out.
If you’re ready to hand over the responsibility of sifting through tenant applications, interviews, move-in and move-out, it may be time to get in touch with us. We don’t take just anyone, either. We make sure to choose the properties we manage wisely, so it doesn’t jeopardize our service to you. Protect your financial return and choose the experts: McQueen’s Management.
Comments