Call of the month: Mid-tenancy inspections
Spring is almost here and now could be a good time to arrange an inspection at your property. A landlord gave our Landlord Support Team a call recently because they were new to self-managing, and wanted some advice on what to do.
Our landlord, who lets two family homes out, said they were new to the industry, having previously used a letting agent to manage their rentals.
They said one was inspected by the letting agent eight months ago, and the other was a new tenancy our landlord set up themselves, six months ago.
They told the adviser they enjoy good relationships with their tenants, but wanted to know more about the specifics of the safety issues they should be looking out for when carrying out their inspections - and any other useful hints and tips.
Our advice
Mid-tenancy inspections are very important, to check to check the property remains safe to live in, and address any potential maintenance issues.
Our Landlord Support Team adviser began by reminding the landlord they are required to give at least 24 hours’ notice in writing before they can access the properties.
At the start of the tenancy, the landlord should have had an inventory carried out – either by themselves or a professional.
The adviser explained t it is a good idea for our landlord to take a copy of the original inventory with them on inspection day, as it will be useful to check it when looking at different rooms.
They explained that they should be checking smoke alarms are in place and in good working order, and the same for carbon monoxide alarms, where these are present.
Landlords should also check any electronic appliances they have provided are still safe and in good working order, and that any fire escapes are free from obstructions.
Security alarms can also be tested and also door locks, to make sure they are all working as they should - not forgetting any outbuildings as well.
Other useful hints
Our adviser said that, ideally, the inspection should be carried out during the day. As well as the safety checks they should also also inspect the property for any signs of damp, mould or condensation, so that any issues can be nipped in the bud before they get worse.
Given the bad weather over the winter period, it may also be useful to visually inspect from the ground the outdoor guttering and fences.
More information
There is much more information on mid-tenancy inspections, including a checklist of what to inspect, on the NRLA website. The form is free to download for NRLA members.
- The NRLA runs an eLearning Property Standards course, for landlords to understand more about inspections, property standards, and their repair obligations. With a discount for NRLA members, click here to book the course today.
- More guidance on how often properties should be inspected can be read here.
- Did you know that NRLA partner Viewber can carry out inspections on your behalf? Both one-off and routine property visits can be scheduled through Viewber. Discover more here.
