So, you've got a great property in Woodbridge, VA, and you're ready to rent it out?
Not so fast! Have you conducted any rental property inspections so far? These are professional inspections for assessing if your property is ready to rent out. It also helps you notice any issues in case you need to repair or renovate your property.
Unfortunately, many landlords don't take rental property inspections as seriously as they should. In some cases, this can be illegal.
Here's what you need to know about them:
Why Consider Rental Property Inspections
Let's start by looking at a few reasons why you should have rental property inspections. When you hire a property inspector, they'll have the following rental inspection checklist:
- Are all appliances working?
- Do fixtures need repair or replacement?
- Are there holes in the walls/floors?
- Evidence of asbestos, mold, etc.
- Are there any issues caused by pets?
These are a few things that your property inspector will observe. They can also advise on how to fix such issues. If you need to repair anything, you can often depend on your HOA.
Routine property inspections will also help you assess your tenants. You'll know if they're responsible or if they're causing damage to your property.
How Often to Hold Rental Property Inspections
The next step is to decide how often you'd like to hold rental property inspections.
Make sure that you always include a clause in your rental agreements for inspections. You'll also need to give your tenants at least 24 hours' notice before the inspection. Your lawyer will ensure you're keeping in line with property inspection laws.
Let's presume you've rented your property for one year. You should have at least two inspections during the rental period.
The first one should be no later than six months into the agreement. The second should be just before the rental agreement ends. This way, you can assess if anything needs to be fixed before the tenant leaves.
If the tenant is responsible for any damage, you can discuss this with them before they leave.
You must also have routine property inspections when your property is vacant. This ensures that you can always maintain it to the highest standard.
You don't want to have to fix any issues before allowing a tenant in. The property should be 100% ready once you find a suitable tenant.
Rental property inspections are the best way to look after your property. It also lets you keep your tenants in check. This process will help you decide if you should extend your lease agreement.
Improve Your Property
Now you know the importance of rental property inspections and how they'll improve your property.
Rental property inspections are crucial for checking for broken appliances, fixtures, evidence of toxic materials, etc. The property inspector will also suggest how you can fix any issues.
Make sure your contract states how often you'll come in for a property inspection. You should hold at least two property inspections within a one-year rental agreement.
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