Being a Landlord means you are making a huge financial investment but it can also be a bit of a roller coaster ride emotionally when trying to gain a decent return that may be your only income or nest egg for the future. For many Landlord’s, property is their biggest asset or only income so utilise a property management company to do regular property inspections.
The private rented sector is heavily regulated now with further changes expected but it can be a lucrative source of income and give a sense of satisfaction knowing families are in a safe, well managed property.
On a whole, tenants are trustworthy and reliable, but this is no guarantee they will care and maintain the property the same as perhaps you would. When tenants view the property as their home, they cherish their privacy, however, occupancy is not ownership so expectations need to be balanced.
Requesting a property inspection of your rental property
Many tenants worry when Landlords or Agents request a house inspector visit, thinking that they are doing something wrong (or perhaps hiding something they are doing wrong) so can get a bit nervous. However, they need to know it’s to ensure the property is safe and secure and part of the property management process.
When a Letting Agent drafts a Tenancy Agreement, it will be written into the lease that access to the property must be given when requested (normally within 24 hours and at reasonable times of the day), that being said, a Tenant is also entitled to quiet peace and enjoyment of the property, so inspections are generally anything from 3 month periods to yearly. Any Landlord whose serious about protecting their property should conduct, or instruct a property inspector, regular interim inspections.
Regular inspections are generally part of a tenancy agreement and with the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, the right is implied.
How often should you carry out property inspections?
3-4 month periods if property is let on short-term
12 month periods if property is let over 12 months
Can I rely on a tenant informing me of an issue?
Not recommended. You may have a great relationship with the tenant, however, as they have grown accustomed to their home they won’t always appreciate something’s not right whereas a professionally conducted interim inspection will. Having a comprehensive interim inspection done on your property, may limit longer-term damage by instigating early repairs and anticipating major problems by catching cause early.
What should you look for?
Although this is not a complete list in the inspection report, it gives an idea of what’s covered:
- Evidence of faulty smoke detectors and/or any tampering
- Evidence of pets
- Evidence of unauthorised tenants / over occupancy
- Evidence of smoking
- Evidence of damp or condensation
- Evidence the garden is maintained
- Evidence of broken glass and/or windows
- Evidence of external issues
An experienced inventory provider doing a property inspection will often see issues, Landlord’s don’t realise are issues. They can only focus on what they evidence and showcase.
It’s worth noting, the responsibility to maintain a safe and secure environment for the tenant, lies with the Landlord and Agent they instruct to do the property management. Doing inspections not only ensures your complying with the Law, but also giving your Tenant’s maximum protection.