Discover how landlords can make sure that their tenancies always run smoothly
When a landlord self-manages their tenancies, one of the first things to slip is the tenancy inspections. If there are no issues, is there really a need to do an inspection??
When a landlord self-manages their tenancies, one of the first things to slip is the tenancy inspections. There are many potential reasons for this, but it most likely comes down to time restrictions.
As many tenants are quiet and responsible and pay their rent on time, giving the landlord no reason to suspect any problems, there seems little point in inspecting the property. And when your life is busy, and you're short on time, you naturally cut corners wherever possible. If there are no issues, is there really a need to do an inspection??
It isn't always the case that tenants are causing damage and need to be checked up on. More often than not, everything is fine. However, there may be a minor niggle here or a little problem there that may just be best off being reported to you. However, the chances are that without a visit, the tenants' wouldn't bother you with something so trivial. Or perhaps they just put up with something because the property is otherwise perfect?
Tenancy inspections are also neglected because they are a little awkward. It isn't pleasant to request an opportunity to inspect your tenant and judge how they are living in the property. It is also not particularly pleasant for the tenant to feel as if you are examining them and how they live.
Perhaps the terminology here isn't correct. Maybe the word inspection is too harsh? It isn't an inspection at all but a property visit. An opportunity for you as the landlord to check in with your tenants to make sure they're happy in the property and that there's nothing that you as the landlord need to do to improve their time living there.
Tenancy visits, checkups, inspections, whatever you choose to call them, are vital, both for the maintenance of the property and the communication between the landlord and tenant. If you never speak to each other, it will be quite a surprise to hear from you out of the blue.
Inspections, or visits, are a vital way to keep the channels of communication with your tenants open and transparent and to ensure that your property is maintained correctly so that your tenants are happy and stay for as long as possible.
So, how can you implement a tenancy inspection strategy to keep your property in good order?
Consistency: Make sure that you carry them out consistently. Either every 3 or perhaps 6 months. This way, they won't come out of the blue causing uneasiness for your tenants, and you will get to know each other over time. Also, the property will be well maintained, and any potential issues will be nipped in the bud quickly.
By Appointment: You can't just turn up. You need to make an appointment in writing and make sure that you give plenty of notice.
Be polite: It may be your property, but it's their home. They're paying you for that privilege, so be respectful and considerate. Make it clear that you are not there to judge them, simply to double-check that you are doing everything you can as a landlord to ensure their stay in the property is as good as possible.
If you're trying to manage a property alone and know that you haven't visited for some time, perhaps it is time to introduce a managing agent to look after it for you?
A property manager will act as your eyes and ears, ensuring your property is well looked after, and your tenants are happy. But not only that, they'll ensure that the rent is paid promptly and that your tenancy is legally compliant, keeping up to date with the regularly changing legislation.
Contact us today to find out how our expert property managers can help you.