Do I need an inspection before renting a house?

Question

I have just found tenants to rent my primary residence in the Hartford, CT area. Before I sign the lease with them, a friend from St Louis, MO mentioned that I might need to have an occupancy inspection. This is not anything that I was aware of, but I wondered if I could get this information from a bigger pockets investor.

Sam Shueh · Answer

I think you want the owner/realtor show you they are the owner property manager with proof. You ever heard that they check you inside and out and took your deposit and ran?

Kim Meredith Hampton · Answer

@Park Pratt do pictures with a written report noting everything good and bad. That way there is no question as to the condition upon vacating the property

Filipe Pereira · Answer

@Park Pratt I have a move in check list that I use in both my property management and personal business. Very basic form, but well worth it when the tenant moves out and says "hey that wasn't me!". I'd be happy to share it with you. Send me a message or email me!Good luck with your new tenant :)

Ames Foley · Answer

@Park Pratt you may also want to look at your Property Tax statement.  In Illinois,  there is a deduction if you live in the property you own.  Or another way to put it, you pay more tax if the property is being rented.  that could be a nasty surprise. With CT being one of the highest it may kill any cash flow.

Mags S. · Answer

Get all the city/state licenses required to rent a property in your area. Also have a process to take a close look at your prospective tenants (credit, background, employment, etc.

Park Pratt · Answer

@Cody L., Thank you for your response, that was more the intent behind the question. I think my safest course of action is to call the inspector Monday and ask them some questions. I have had many interactions with them, and they have already inspected many of the projects I have worked out in this house. I just want to ensure that I am legally protected.

I appreciate all of the responses though, and I will be taking extensive photos prior to renters moving in.

Thanks again, Park

Do I need an inspection before renting a house?

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