Why the move-in inspection is the most important when tenanting your property

Comprehensive initial tenancy inspections are a crucial element of any successful tenancy. If the details and records required for initial tenancy inspections are overlooked, a landlord risks creating disputes later or affecting their chance to foster a positive landlord-tenant relationship from the outset.

Landlords must carry out an initial property inspection before the tenancy commences. The purpose of this inspection is to assess the current condition of the property.

Once the inspection has taken place, the landlord and tenant should sign and keep a copy of the property inspection report for their personal records.

After the tenancy has ended, this initial property inspection report can be used to check that the property has not been damaged.  Compare the property to what was documented in the initial report to identify if any damages were made during the tenancy.

If you need to go to the tribunal at the end of a tenancy, this first inspection report will be the most important document in your possession. (Remember that a tenant can’t be blamed for any damage that was written down when the tenancy started, and having this initial report for reference will make any new damage easy to identify.)

Initial inspection (move-in) services

Our Initial Tenancy Inspection Service (part of our range of Choice products for the do-it-yourself landlord) helps to create the required records, provide transparency, and minimise future tenancy condition misunderstandings.

We provide a detailed baseline condition report, including photos, alongside any required maintenance recommendations to help meet compliance obligations.

Our service aims to enhance the future protection of both the landlord’s and tenant’s rights through improved property condition awareness. Benefits of this service include:

• Property Condition Evidence: Detailed assessment with notes and photos creates accurate pre-tenancy records, vital for dispute resolution during or after the tenancy.
• Landlord Insurance Cover: Our reports can facilitate successful insurance claims by providing more detailed evidence of the property’s pre-tenancy condition.
• Property Compliance: Identification of maintenance needs to ensure landlords meet their legal obligations, offering insights for repairs, maintenance, or improvements.
• Tenancy Tribunal Support: Our comprehensive reports and photographic evidence are essential supporting documents in any disputes or claims before the Tenancy Tribunal.
• Maintenance Planning and Budgeting: Recommendations help landlords understand immediate repairs or future maintenance, aiding in effective planning and budgeting for property upkeep.

Other inspection services

Landlords face the possibility of voiding their insurance policies if they fail to carry out regular inspections. Most insurance providers require landlords to inspect their property every three to six months as a term of their insurance cover.

Having evidence of regular inspections is particularly important in cases of intentional damage, when your insurer is likely to ask to see copies of your property inspections. To ensure compliance, it is important to thoroughly document inspections. You should keep a record of the inspection date, along with notes and photographs of the property inspection.

At Ray White we offer a comprehensive and cost-effective annual routine inspection service for DIY Landlords. You can book a one-off professional inspection or outsource all of your inspections to us. 

Solutions for do-it-yourself landlords

Need assistance with your property inspections or managing your rental portfolio?

Ray White Choice is an industry-exclusive suite of property management services designed for self-managing landlords. Pick and choose the tools you need rather than the all-or-nothing industry approach to property management services.

Landlords retain full control of their property and tenancy alongside targeted Ray White support, providing better outcomes for landlords and tenants alike.

Consider Ray White Whangarei as your property consultant. Here to help you manage all aspects of your portfolio.

Take advantage of our skills and experience – with no ongoing fees. Make your choice today.

Ray White Property Management Your Best Investment This Year
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