Imagine you're at home one day and a stranger barges into your home unannounced. Now imagine you get a closer look and realize it was just your landlord coming in to inspect the apartment.
These inspections are important, but tenants also have a right to the quiet enjoyment of their home. Landlords have to find a way to balance these opposing needs.
Read on to learn how often to do rental property inspections in Orlando, FL.
Types of Rental Property Inspections
The hot Orlando rental market makes inspections even more important. You'll have to look through several properties before you find the right one. You'll also have to keep checking it often to make sure the investment is worth it.
You can't plan for all emergencies or tenant requests. You can plan for other types of inspections, and knowing how is one of the best property maintenance tips you can get.
Move-In Inspections
A move-in inspection comes right before the tenant moves in. The landlord and the tenant go through the apartment together.
They should be following rental inspection checklists that cover everything in the apartment, including the:
- Light fixtures
- Faucets
- Appliances
- Doors
- Windows
- Floors
- Walls
Record and photograph any damage. It's a useful comparison tool for later.
Move-Out Inspections
The move-out inspection occurs at the end of a tenancy. It lets the landlord compare the property's condition from the beginning to the end.
That makes it easier to determine the tenant's liability for damages or deductions from their security deposit.
Periodic Inspections
Property maintenance can be expensive and time-consuming, but it's a necessary step to protect your investment. Periodic inspections keep small issues get out of hand.
Landlords should stop by their properties often. It helps them track of their condition and the current level of tenant property care. It's also crucial to maintaining positive tenant relations.
How Often Can You Inspect?
Move-in and move-out inspections should be part of every tenancy change. The number of allowed periodic rental property inspections depends on what you set in the lease.
You also need a valid reason for entering the property. Florida landlord regulations say these include:
- Showing the property to prospective tenants, buyers, or contractors
- A renter's extended absence
- Necessary inspections or repairs
- Emergencies
The laws don't set a specific number of times you can inspect a property, but they do give a general time frame. They say that it should be during a reasonable hour of the day, typically between 7:30 a.m. and 8:00 pm.
You must get the tenant's consent first. Give them notice at least 24 hours in advance. Deliver it to them in writing or post it on their front door.
Encourage tenants to be present during inspections. Keep a record of each visit, including the reason, a copy of the notice you gave them, and any other details. This serves as proof of damage and prevents disputes later.
Who Can Help With My Next Inspection?
Rental property inspections are an essential part of maintenance. How often to do them depends on your lease and local laws.
Sunnyside Properties is dedicated to improving the Orlando rental community. We work to create the best possible homes for every tenant and maximize the profitability for every owner. Contact us today to enjoy the benefits of stress-free property management.
.png)