Your list of things to do as a landlord seems to go on for miles, so you can't bear the thought of adding another item to the list. But one task should always be kept on the list and take priority each year: conducting regular rental property inspections.
The reality is, repairing a rental unit can easily cost thousands and even tens of thousands. For this reason, it is critical that you routinely inspect your property in Tampa -- even if you don't live near or in the building.
Routine inspections should ideally take place every month or two months, as well as during tenant move-ins and move-outs. You can also conduct drive-by inspections.
Here's a rundown on the top reasons why regular rental property inspections are important.
Let's jump in!
Ensuring Tenant Compliance
One of the biggest reasons to inspect your property when a tenant is living there is to ensure that they are following your agreed-upon lease rules.
For instance, you can ascertain that the tenant is keeping up your property as promised. Let's say that your rental contract stipulates that the tenant must care for the property's lawn. A simple drive-by inspection will tell you if this is being done.
Also, consider letting your tenants know that you plan to conduct regular inspections. This may incentivize them to take care of the property long term.
Understanding Tenants' Behavior
Regular rental property inspections are also important in that they provide you with clues about the behavior of your tenant.
For example, through an inspection, you can find out if your tenant is taking part in illicit drug use or other criminal activities.
You can also pinpoint any tenants who have hoarding issues -- which may damage your property and even negatively affect common areas -- by inspecting your property routinely.
Preventing Serious Issues
Regular inspections additionally prevent major property issues down the road.
The normal use of a home can lead to rental property issues, and through inspections, you can easily catch and address these issues before they grow into costly ones.
For instance, rainy weather may cause minor damage, like a tiny leak in your home. If this is not addressed, it can later turn into major damage, such as a busted pipe that leads to property flooding or the growth of mold.
Other issues to look out for include clogged drains outside, unhinged doors, torn baseboards, and broken windows.
How We Can Help with Regular Property Inspections
We offer multiple highly rated property management services for today's landlords/investors in Tampa.
For instance, we can help you to market your property, lease the home, and maintain the property so that it keeps generating income for you long term.
As part of our maintenance services, we'll conduct routine rental property inspections.
Get in touch with us to learn more about how our property maintenance process can keep your bottom line going strong in the coming months.
