INVESTMENT SERIES
“ which is why we encourage agents to use a detailed checklist – created in advance – that itemises all building elements and inventory from floor to ceiling , room by room . Every flaw needs to be documented in writing and photographed , and general pictures of the property ’ s overall condition should be taken as well . The resulting document must then be signed by the tenant and agent , and a copy given to everyone involved .”
By bracketing a lease with an inspection on either end like this , culpability is easy to prove . To prevent or minimise problems in the first place , however , more frequent checks are advised .
“ A big part of our Rawson Rentals ethos is matching the right landlord with the right tenant ,” says Savage , “ and that means maintaining transparency and open lines of communication throughout the lease period . To achieve this , we conduct inspections at least once every six months to confirm that everything is in order , and nip any potential issues in the bud .”
While some tenants may not find the prospect of additional inspections appealing , they can actually be quite useful – particularly towards the end of a lease .
“ Interim inspections can highlight issues that will crop up in the outgoing inspection , giving tenants the chance to attend to things themselves rather than have the cost deducted from their deposit later on ,” says Savage . “ Some of our rental agents will even do a specific pre-outgoing inspection to give tenants this opportunity – it ’ s nice to be able to help them save money if we can do so in a responsible way .”
No matter how responsible you are , however , inspections are an inescapable – and important – part of the rental experience . They are also the best way to protect tenant and landlord interests , and ensure fair treatment for everyone at the end of the day .
A TENANT ’ S CHECKLIST FOR EVERY ROOM
Living areas
Lights : Do all your lights work ? Switch them on and off to double check . Consider looking at the light fittings for any loose cables and make note of these . You should give all light switches a once over with a cloth to remove any residue or leftover prints .
Walls : The condition of your walls is important . If you ’ re renting , small ‘ wear and tear ‘ -style cracks shouldn ’ t worry you , but definitely note them down so you ’ re not hit with any surprise costs . Look along the bottom edging of your wall for any rising dampness .
Floorboards : While they ’ re a pleasant alternative to dealing with carpeting , floorboards can easily show signs of wear and can be expensive to fix . Checks for creaks by walking over your floor , but also have a look to see if your floorboards have started to come up at the edges .
Kitchen and bathroom
Sinks and plumbing : How are your taps working ? It might seem harmless , but a dripping tap can have a huge effect on your utility bills . Check that all dripping taps are securely fixed . It might be as simple as replacing a washer if required . When you turn the taps on , listen for any strange sounds . It wouldn ’ t hurt to check under your sink for possible leaks .
Kitchen appliances and fittings : No one likes to clean their oven , but it ’ s a key sore spot for property managers and landlords alike . Open your stove , run your finger over the range hood and give the stove top a very thorough scrub . If there ’ s built-up grease around these areas , it won ’ t be looked fondly upon . If your microwave and fridge were included in your property , make sure you open them and check that they ’ re clean .
Tiles and surfaces : It ’ s all about the shine when it comes to your next routine rental inspection . This is where you should clean away any residual debris and scrub hard . The same goes for your sink , mirror , shower and bathtub too .
The toilet : We know . Ugh ! But make sure you do an extra check around the likely-to-get-more-dirty-thanother places like the toilet and bin areas . It ’ ll give you an idea of how much love you ’ re giving that area ( and what needs to be improved on !)
The cupboards : Food residue and grime can be caught between the hinges of your cupboards and in the joins of shelves in your bathroom and kitchen . Give them a thorough look-over .
Your bedroom
Walls and floorboards : Just as you did in the living room , look at the state of your walls and floorboards . This will give you a good indication of how much love your bedroom needs . Consider giving them a little extra TLC where you can .
Windows and doors : Open your windows and doors , and let the air in . Check the handles and locks on everything where appropriate . Sliding doors and windows can easily fall into disrepair .
Have a general clean-up : Your landlord or property manager isn ’ t likely to poke around in your bedroom too much , but giving it a good once-over , throwing away any rubbish and wiping down exposed surfaces will go a long way to give a good impression during your routine inspection .
Your property ’ s exterior :
Cobwebs : The dreaded cobwebs can be a nuisance , but you must clear them ahead of your routine rental inspection . Sweep around the whole exterior of your rental property and clear away any cobwebs .
Your entrance doors : Are the locks and handles functioning properly ?
The garage : If your property comes with a garage , check the doors . Do they work properly ? Ensure the whole space is kept relatively clean and well-organised .
Gates and garden : Now is the time to look for any non-human residents your property might be housing . If your property has gates or a garden , look over them as well .
Source : Rent . com . au
SA Real Estate Investor Magazine AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018 21