In 2022, Tampa was one of the top cities in the USA for new residents. We don't expect this trend to slow down any time soon!
This brings a great opportunity for landlords in the city. However, it also brings a few problems. What happens when potential tenants have many housing options to choose from?
You have to make sure you have the highest-quality rental property around. To do this, you have to prioritize rental property maintenance. This means that you have to conduct rental property inspections.
Here's what you should know:
Rental Property Checklist
What are all the tasks that come with a rental property inspection? The main purpose of the inspections is to check for any issues or potential issues with the property.
The rental property inspector will check for the following:
- Is the property clean?
- Is there any damage from the tenant?
- Is there any damage from pets?
- Electrical issues
- Plumbing issues
- Potential for mold, asbestos, and other pollutants
- Faulty appliances
These are some of the basics that you and your tenants can expect from a rental property inspection. You can always make requests for further items if you need a more thorough inspection.
Landlords have the legal right to conduct rental property inspections as they see fit. However, when a tenant occupies a property, you have to accommodate them.
How Often to Conduct Rental Property Inspections
If a property is vacant, you may wish to conduct a rental property inspection every three months. If you maintain your property well, you can likely decrease this if needed.
Once your property is occupied, you have to work with the tenant's schedule. In your lease agreement, you should include a clause that states you have the right to enter the property for an inspection.
However, an inspection can only occur at a time suited for your tenant. Rental property inspection frequency can also become uncomfortable for your tenant if it happens too often.
You can consider one inspection right before your tenant moves in. A second can be conducted right before they leave. You can consider one or two more during their stay as long as you schedule beforehand with your tenant.
If you notice any issues during an inspection, inform your tenants. If it's due to their negligence, they might have to pay for a repair. If they attend to this immediately, you might be able to reduce the frequency of your inspections.
If your tenants are irresponsible with property maintenance, you may have grounds for eviction.
Prepare Your Rental Property
Now you understand the importance of rental property inspections and how often to conduct them.
These inspections can detect any potential issues with your rental property. You can conduct them as you wish during vacant periods. When you have a tenant, you must accommodate your tenant's schedule. You can hire a property manager to help you.
PMI Arrico Realty and Property Management is a leading property management company for Tampa landlords. We have over 20 years of experience and will be glad to assist you.
