The notification of an incoming rental inspection can be a little jarring. You’ll suddenly find yourself making a mental checklist of every problem area in your home. Perhaps it’s your first inspection, and you’re unsure what to expect. Look no further; this post should provide a little insight that will put you and your landlord at ease.

Why Do Landlords Conduct Inspections?

Your home (at the end of the day) is your landlord’s investment, and unfortunately, careless tenants can sometimes abuse it. This can be anything from damage to the property or just general disrespect in caring for it. These inspections allow them to verify the property’s condition anytime, for example, before extending a lease or releasing a deposit to tenants moving out.

When Can Inspections be Performed?

This really can vary for a few different reasons. So here is a list of the most common times your landlord can perform an inspection:

• At least one mid-year inspection
• For new tenants, it’s recommended to do a check-in three to four months after moving in
• Necessary safety inspections for pest control or leaks

Aside from these, once or twice a year is up to the landlord. Landlords are allowed to perform multiple inspections yearly as long as they are not random and do not violate the tenant’s privacy.

Do I Get a Notice of Inspection?

The landlord is required to give at least 24-hour notice before performing an inspection, however in the case of an emergency they are allowed to enter the property as long as the tenant approves it. This may seem like a short time, but usually, there is a good reason. Communication with your landlord is extremely important to ensure everyone is on the same page.

What Should I Expect During an Inspection?

Your landlord probably has a checklist that they will do that outlines the basics for all their properties. Typically, they will look for damage that goes beyond wear and tear, such as:

• Cracked walls or flooring
• Stained carpets
• Moldy or potentially moldy areas that can be harmful to the tenant’s health
• Leaks in bathrooms, ceilings, or faucets
• Condition of appliances if provided with the property
• Unpleasant smells
• Signs of infestation or pests
• Faulty alarms or detectors

This list does not include everything; however, it gives you a basic idea of what they seek. If action is not taken, these general problems can be a nuisance or a danger to the tenants and the landlord. If any of these are present, the landlord can be expected to document them by taking pictures. So don’t be alarmed if your landlord takes photos of your home.

What if I Refuse Inspection?

If a landlord shows up unannounced or without prior notice, you can refuse an inspection. They would not be allowed to enter your premises without you allowing it. As a tenant, you can reschedule or request a different time. However, if you refuse their inspection for a prolonged period, that not only creates issues with your relationship but also violates a basic landlord right and their lease terms. This can lead to eviction or legal issues, as it may seem like you are hiding something.

So, short and sweet, there you have it. You now have all the basics you need to know about what to expect at your rental inspection and how to prepare for it to go smoothly.

Buckeye Northwest Realty provides houses for rent in Toledo, Ohio, and the surrounding areas. To learn more about houses for rent, contact us today!