Part of moving into a new space involves assessing it, and both tenants and property owners should conduct their own inspections. Are there previous damages or material defects to note?
Conducting a move-in inspection and submitting the paperwork to the property manager will protect the tenant’s security deposit and damage charges. For the property owner, it addresses issues of safety and liability. Documentation of a thorough inspection before the tenant moves in offers proof the property owner did their due diligence. Here are five things to do during a move-in inspection in Riverdale.
1. Conduct the Move-In Inspection ASAP
Conduct the move-in inspection as soon as possible. Survey the property, looking for visible damage and issues concerning plumbing, heating or infestation. Are fixtures and facilities in working order? Don’t paint over water damage. Check for deeper concerns.
It’s in the tenant’s best interest to conduct their own move-in inspection or be present with the landlord during the inspection. Security deposits can quickly vanish for wear and tear or refurbishment if tenants don’t properly document damage and needed repairs, including reporting issues over the tenure of their lease. Renters should be encouraged to report damages within three days of moving in, so repairs can be quickly made.
2. Check All Safety Features
Examine safety features inside the property and test:
- Security alarms. What is the procedure to deal with false alarms? Check the security codes.
- Carbon dioxide and smoke detectors. Are all detectors working?
- Doors. Do doors slam or stick when you shut them? Do they need stoppers to prevent damage to the wall?
- Windows. Do all windows lock and shut securely?
- Screens. Are there any gaps or tears? What about rust?
- Locks. Do all locks function properly and completely? What about unlocking easily? Do the keys stick?
- Electrical outlets. Test for loose or tight connections. Also, look for charring and burning.
- Appliances. Run all appliances through a complete cycle.
- Lights. Turn lights off and on. Do they buzz or flicker?
- Water. Is water odorless and clear? Are all faucets functional?
Always document your inspection and take video and photos. This visual record can supplement the paperwork.
3. Material Defects
The property owner is always responsible for fixing broken appliances or electrical items, including plug sockets and ceiling lights. Material defects are sometimes skipped during a move-in inspection, or only a few items are looked at, not every switch or socket.
When the tenant finally uses a plug socket, for example, it doesn’t work or may pose a risk. In some cases, landlords may try to make the tenant pay. Avoid this scenario by always checking for material defects and addressing the issue promptly.
4. Health & Safety Concerns
Look at your property in terms of scenarios. Is there an overlooked opportunity a robber might take advantage of? Do you spot evidence of a possible infestation?
Everything from a loosely shutting garage door to mouse droppings presents safety concerns that should not be overlooked. Doors that need “just a little more elbow grease” or locks that need force with the key to properly function still need addressing. Put the health and safety of your tenant first.
5. Maintenance Issues
Between tenants leaving and new ones moving in, maintenance issues are inevitable. All maintenance issues should be resolved before a tenant moves in, but think about repairs in terms of priority.
Hot water and health and safety are always the top priority. Don’t forget about light switches. The tenant may be moving in late at night due to need and trip. That poses a safety concern. If you have time, you can also make home improvements that offer a great ROI.
Take care of all repairs in advance, and follow up on the tenant’s inspection promptly. You will begin a solid foundation with your new tenant, reassuring them that their concerns will always be addressed.
Moving into a new home is exciting for the tenant, and you want to make sure the process goes as smoothly as possible for you both. Contact us for more tips regarding the process or if you are interested bringing on an intermediary.
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