Question about interior inspection of your properties

[Marc Belisle]

Hi all,

Do you inspect the interiors of your rental properties while occupied? It sounds like a great idea on paper to check on the condition of your property and see if the tenant is abusing the place. I was speaking to a property manager the other day who said they do them if requested but he strongly suggested not doing them for the following reason. 

He has found the outcome is usually heavily negative for the landlord in the end. For instance, last week the company gave notice for the landlord that an inspection would be done. The tenant was outraged, saying he pays for this to be his "home." The inspection went through and was uneventful for any significant findings. 

THE NEXT DAY the tenant gave notice he would be moving out as soon as contract allowed. Now the landlord will most likely have a vacancy for 1-2 months while the property is painted etc, a new search for tenants, and then filling it. 

As someone who has been reading a lot in preparation for becoming a landlord, I feel like it is very important to inspect the property from time to time so a problem can't fester for 1-2 years while you assume your property is being cared for appropriately; however, not if the cost to me will more often than not lead to an outcome like the one I explained.

What are your experiences with this and advice? 

[Thomas S.]

I have trained all tenants to appreciate the fact that I inspect every three - four months. They understand it is to insure that all mechanicals are operating properly, no mold, no dripping taps or leaking drains, smoke detector functioning properly, etc.

The fact that I also inspect for any tenant damage is a secondary issue.

I have a lot of money invested in all my properties and place my priorities above any tenant that has the opinion that since they pay rent the landlord should stay the h*ll out. That is exactly the type of tenant you need to inspect as they are likely hiding something.

It comes down to building a solid landlord tenant relationship. You begin this during screening when you explain your plans to do regular inspections.

Remember they are tenants, you are operating a business, and that places them second to your priorities. To not inspect is irresponsible as you can see from all the landlords that post about tenant damage. Non of them did regular inspections and paid the price.