When you own a rental property, you are responsible for the condition of that property. You need to create a safe environment for your tenants. Before anyone moves in, and in between tenants, there are several things you should inspect. 

What to Inspect for Before Letting Tenants Live in Your Units: Mold 

Mold, mildew, and fungus are often present in damp areas. They can accumulate over time and can go unnoticed until the problem is large. If there is mold in your rental property, it can be hazardous to tenants’ health. It can trigger allergies and cause other respiratory issues. There are a couple of signs to look out for when checking for mold. 

Discoloration is very common and you may see textures that are slimy, powdery, or fuzzy. Mold is always found where moisture is present and thus it’s very common in bathrooms and kitchens. If mold is found, promptly remove it. 

Pest Infestations 

There are many types of pests that can get into a building. You might find anything from insects to rodents to small animals. They can get in through small cracks and any openings in the building. You need to be thorough as you check for pests. They cause serious health hazards to anyone living on the property. 

Smaller pests, like bugs and rodents, can get inside walls or under floors. If you’re worried about a rodent infestation, you should look for droppings or nesting materials. As you inspect for pests, look for any openings on the outside of the property and seal them off. 

What to Inspect for Before Letting Tenants Live in Your Units: Structural Issues 

If there is any damage to the structure of your home, it can lead to parts of the home collapsing. This is a hazard to your tenants. You need to do an inspection of the entire property to make sure there are no issues. There are a few signs to look out for. If any walls are sagging, buckling, or cracking, this is an issue. Soil pulling away from your foundation, gaps or cracks near doors and windows, and sagging/slopping floors are also signs of structural damage. It may be helpful to have a professional inspection done and then hire a contractor to address the damage. 

There are plenty of ways a property can impact the health and safety of your tenants. You can avoid issues if you do an inspection before your tenants move in. Now is your chance to identify and address all problems. 

Did you enjoy reading this article? Here’s more to read: How to Tell if a Property Makes Financial Sense
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