Florida ranks second in the nation for moves due to foreclosure and eviction.
Times are tough, but as a landlord, you must prioritize the well-being of your property. If a tenant stands in the way of that, you need to make the moves to get rid of them. One way to help mitigate property damage, whether it's tenant-caused or not, is to perform regular rental property inspections.
Today, we'll give you a short guide for rental property inspections. By keeping a close on your investment property, you can boost cash flow and avoid major issues. Keep reading and learn how to do it the right way.
Importance of Rental Property Inspections
Rental property inspections allow you to keep tabs on your rental property investment. Rental properties go through far more wear and tear than owner-occupied properties. It's the nature of renting to different tenants over the years, but inspections allow you to mitigate damage.
There are two main types of property inspections. First, you've got the move-in/move-out inspection that you perform at the beginning and end of every tenancy. Using an inspection checklist, you walk through the property, making note of any existing damage.
When the tenant moves out, you do the inspection again. Any new damage outside normal wear and tear is the tenant's responsibility. You take the cost of repairs out of their security deposit, thus preserving your rental unit.
The other type of property inspection is one you perform during a tenancy.
Property Inspection Laws in Florida
When performing property inspections, it's essential to stay within the bounds of the law. Your tenants have rights under Florida law. Namely, they have the right to privacy and the quiet enjoyment of your property.
So, while there's no limit on the number of times you can inspect your property, it's best to keep it to bi-annual or quarterly inspections, unless you have reason to believe nefarious activity is going on. You also need to give your tenants 24 hours' notice before entering the premises.
What to Look For
So, what should you be looking for during an inspection?
Firstly, a tenant may call you to request maintenance or repairs. It's important to promptly handle these requests so your tenant stays happy and your property is well-kept.
When you take it unto yourself to inspect the property, look out for common signs of damage or lease violations. Holes in the walls, ripped-up carpets, and cracked windows are all common types of damage.
Common lease violations include unauthorized pets and tenants or illegal activity. When you inspect the property, look for signs of drug use, pet toys, or additional vehicles in the driveway.
How a Property Manager Helps with Asset Management
Performing rental property inspections will help you avoid lease violations and property damage. If you've got a suspicious tenant, rental inspections can become confrontational, which can be highly stressful to deal with.
As an investment property owner, it's easier to let a professional deal with inspections and tenant relations. At Northeast Florida Realty Inc., we're one of Jacksonville's top full-service property managers. To learn more about how we can help you protect your investment, contact us today.
