Inspecting the Property Before the Tenant Moves In

You should conduct an inspection of the apartment prior to the tenant occupying it. This inspection is a written record of the state of the property and its contents. It must be accurate because the results will be matched to an inspection after the tenant has left the property.

You should prepare or purchase a checklist for the inspection. Customize an existing form to cover any unique areas of your property. The items usually covered in a prelease inspection include:

Decorative order of the interior: carpets, curtains, fixtures and fittings, walls, blinds
Furniture, if the premises are to be let furnished
Floors, ceilings, doors
Appliances
Gardens and decks
Windows
Lights
Storage Areas

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. Should I have the tenant walk with me on the inspection?

A. Yes. It is a very good idea to conduct a prelease inspection with a new tenant and a final inspection with a departing tenant. Be sure to explain your findings at the end of the prelease inspection and have your tenant sign off on it.

Q. Can the tenant point out problems with the apartment during the inspection?

A. Yes. The tenant may have specific concerns not addressed on your form or may simply see something you missed.

Q. If the apartment is not available for a prelease inspection, is it adequate to inspect a model apartment?

A. No. The model apartment is not being rented by the tenant. If it is not possible to inspect the apartment before your new tenant moves in, try to do it the day the tenant moves in or within several days.

Q. Do I need to have the tenant inspect common areas and the exterior of the building?

A. Yes. A thorough inspection would include any areas the tenant might access including hallways, stairways, storage areas, laundry room and the exterior.

Q. Can a tenant demand repairs be made prior to signing the lease and occupying the property?

A. Yes, a tenant can simply refuse to sign the lease and walk away from the rental without any obligation to you. To maintain future good tenant relations, it is a good idea to fix any problems within reason noted on the inspection. If you are aware of a major issue, fix it before you make your unit available for showing.