How to ensure that your Property Manager is checking in on your houses?

[Tyler Flagg]

Hey folks,

Quick question for you. I recently took a look at a rental property that I wanted to buy...and it was in a state of utter disarray. It was clear that the property manager hadn't checked on the property in years, because it looked like a 'hoarder' house. 

I've got three properties currently and my PM does a great job of making sure they're in good shape throughout the year. However, I'd hate for this to happen to me in the future if I ever branch out to another market and get a different PM. 

Is there anything that y'all have done in order to make sure that property managers are ACTUALLY checking in on houses throughout the year? Is there a sure fire way to prevent this kind of stuff before it happens?

Any advice would definitely be appreciated. 

Thanks!

[Account Closed]

I'm a Property Manager and @Account Closed's answer is spot on. None of my clients have ever asked for a signed checklist and pics, but I do those things anyway and would be happy to send them a copy, if they asked. I can't imagine your PM refusing.