Certificate of Occupancy

[Johnny Nelson]

About to schedule our first duplex's COO in Minneapolis. We live in the lower unit, tenants in the upper. What do I need to do to ensure a successful inspection? What kinds of things do they look at, and are concerned with? Minneapolis is a fairly renter-friendly city, so if there are any items I need to address before they arrive, What are they, specifically or generally?

[Brad Schaeppi]

@Johnny Nelson The City of Minneapolis has their own list:  Rental License Checklist.

Big picture:

Notice the tenant and walk through their unit several days prior to the inspection to check for the overall condition. First, the bulk of the inspection is the property physical condition, but tenant actions can also complicate the walk through:  removed smoke alarms from ceilings, improper extension cords, etc.  

A few common items to be on the lookout for:  Look everywhere inside and out for peeling or missing paint and fix as necessary, test windows to make sure they open, can stay open, close, and lock (old wood windows may have problems doing this regularly or be stuck all together), review basement for any signs of standard black, non-toxic mold/standing water, make sure all stairs are cleared of tenant items (no bikes, boxes, etc.).   

At the end of the day, the inspector may be difficult or may be reasonable--it really depends.  

Good luck!