How to Have Safe Property Inspections During a Pandemic

During a pandemic, we have to take precautions with property inspections.  While residents still need to move during these times, it’s business as usual.  Move-in/Move out inspections is a good practice for both parties.  When a renter moves out, and there is not an existing Move-in/Move-out property inspection checklist with photos, there can be a debate of who caused the damage.  The question could be, did the previous residents cause the damage, or is it the current lessee?

Because of the pandemic, we have to take precautions during a property inspection.  Here are some tips from the World Health Organization (WHO).

          • If you are healthy, wear a mask if you are taking care of a person with a virus.
          • If you are coughing or sneezing, wear a mask
          • Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water
          • To remove the mask: remove it from behind (do not touch the front of the mask).  Be sure to dispose of the face mask properly.

 

During a pandemic, we have to take precautions with property inspections.  While residents still need to move during these times, it’s business as usual.  Move-in/Move out inspections is a good practice for both parties.  When a renter moves out, and there is not an existing Move-in/Move-out property inspection checklist with photos, there can be a debate of who caused the damage.  The question could be, did the previous residents cause the damage, or is it the current lessee?

Because of the pandemic, we have to take precautions during a property inspection.  Here are some tips from the World Health Organization (WHO).

  • If you are healthy, wear a mask if you are taking care of a person with a virus.
  • If you are coughing or sneezing, wear a mask
  • Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water
  • To remove the mask: remove it from behind (do not touch the front of the mask).  Be sure to dispose of the face mask properly.

 

These are great, but there are additional steps you might want to consider.  While an inspection is being performed, have all parties stand at least 6-feet apart or control how many people are allowed in the structure at one time.  Another measure to take is wiping down with a disinfectant all door handles, cabinet knobs, etc. before and after an inspection.  The unit may need repairs before the resident moves in, therefore, the unit would need to be disinfected after the repairs are performed as well.

COVID Mask
COVID Mask

These are great, but there are additional steps you might want to consider.  While an inspection is being performed, have all parties stand at least 6-feet apart or control how many people are allowed in the structure at one time.  Another measure to take is wiping down with a disinfectant all door handles, cabinet knobs, etc. before and after an inspection.  The unit may need repairs before the resident moves in, therefore, the unit would need to be disinfected after the repairs are performed as well.

Before the resident moves in, you and the renter should do a property inspection.  A Move-in/Move-out Property Inspection Checklist takes care of the resident and property owner (or appointed manager) to agree on existing damages at the beginning of the lease to the end of the lease.  All individuals on the lease agreement should examine all appliances, fixtures, walls, etc. to record any preexisting damages for repair.  When the lease has ended, the resident and manager or owner will again inspect the property for new damages.  Then you’ll determine whether it is normal wear and tear or if deductions have to be made to the security deposit.

Before the resident moves in, you and the renter should do a property inspection.  A Move-in/Move-out Property Inspection Checklist takes care of the resident and property owner (or appointed manager) to agree on existing damages at the beginning of the lease to the end of the lease.  All individuals on the lease agreement should examine all appliances, fixtures, walls, etc. to record any preexisting damages for repair.  When the lease has ended, the resident and manager or owner will again inspect the property for new damages.  Then you’ll determine whether it is normal wear and tear or if deductions have to be made to the security deposit.

woman with camera

When a resident moves in, take photos of any damage inside and outside the structure.  Keep the photos along with a Move-in/Move-out form.

By code, some states require using an inspection checklist.  To reduce liability and/or arbitration, it is a good idea to have an inspection.  This can save time and legal expenses caused by misunderstandings.

woman with camera

When a resident moves in, take photos of any damage inside and outside the structure.  Keep the photos along with a Move-in/Move-out form.

By code, some states require using an inspection checklist.  To reduce liability and/or arbitration, it is a good idea to have an inspection.  This can save time and legal expenses caused by misunderstandings.

The above guidelines apply to annual inspections as well.  Annual inspections need a notice to the renter to be scheduled.  Ask your residents to disinfect their unit before an inspector enters, wear a mask, and practicing social distancing.  In regards to professional services such as electricians, plumbers, and tradespeople who can work on, and inside rental properties. Physical distancing and sanitation guidance should be followed when inside the home and records should be kept for contact tracing purposes. Surface cleaning on the area that is being worked on should also be tackled.

Following these recommendations can keep a safer situation for all parties involved!

The above guidelines apply to annual inspections as well.  Annual inspections need a notice to the renter to be scheduled.  Ask your residents to disinfect their unit before an inspector enters, wear a mask, and practicing social distancing.  In regards to professional services such as electricians, plumbers, and tradespeople who can work on, and inside rental properties. Physical distancing and sanitation guidance should be followed when inside the home and records should be kept for contact tracing purposes. Surface cleaning on the area that is being worked on should also be tackled.

Following these recommendations can keep a safer situation for all parties involved!

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