Rental property inspections are an essential part of maintaining a successful Orlando rental property. Property owners tend to overlook rental property inspections — according to a survey conducted by Buildium, 0% of property owners expressed a desire for property managers to provide inspections.
This survey result shows a misunderstanding of the importance of rental property inspections. While this aspect of property management may seem tedious and unnecessary, I can tell you that rental property inspections have the potential to save your rental property from detrimental damage and danger. As a professional property manager, I’m here to tell you the importance of rental property inspections, how to conduct them, and what to look for.
What is a Rental Property Inspection?
A property inspection is a thorough examination of your property to determine its condition, safety, and desirability. Property inspections should be conducted by a professional such as an experienced property manager or a building inspector.
This inspection will evaluate various aspects of the property, including the structure and foundation, plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling systems, appliances, condition of the interior and exterior and more. Upon completion, a professional property manager will communicate any concerns, along with possible solutions, to the property owner.
Why Should I Conduct Rental Property Inspections?
Rental property inspections have significant benefits and allow Orlando rental property owners to ensure the upkeep and safety of their tenant occupied property. Documenting the condition of your property before, during, and after a lease term will give you insight on any property damage or lease violations that occur and help you enforce the lease agreement. Conducting both a move-in and move-out inspection allows rental property owners to hold tenants accountable for damage to the property and withholding the security deposit.
Conducting a quarterly rental property inspection during the tenants’ lease will help property owners and managers discover lease violations and safety concerns, and allow for damage control and increased tenant satisfaction.
How to Conduct a Rental Property Inspection and What to Look For
Landlords and property managers have a legal right to conduct rental property inspections and we highly recommend doing so. To maintain a trusting relationship with a tenant, a property owner or manager should communicate the intention and benefits of routine inspections, and provide reasonable notice of at least 24 hours before entering.
Rental property inspections should evaluate the condition of both the interior and exterior of the property to ensure safe and well maintained conditions across the board. For best practice and uniformity, the inspector should use the same checklist items for the move-in, quarterly, and move-out inspections.
An Orlando Rental Property Inspection Checklist Should Include:
General Interior:
- Walls, ceilings, and floors in good condition (no cracks, stains, or damage)
- Doors and locks functioning properly
- Windows open/close properly and have no cracks
- Window coverings (blinds, curtains) in good condition
- Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors installed and operational
- Adequate lighting in all rooms
Living Room
- Walls and ceiling free from damage and mold
- Flooring (carpet, hardwood, tiles) clean and undamaged
- Electrical outlets and light switches working
- Heating/cooling vents unobstructed
Kitchen
- Cabinets and drawers open/close properly
- Sink and faucets free from leaks
- Garbage disposal operational
- Countertops clean and free from damage
- Stove/oven clean and operational
- Refrigerator and freezer clean and functional
- Dishwasher operational
- Hood/exhaust fan working
Bedrooms
- Closet doors and shelving intact
- Electrical outlets and light fixtures working
- Flooring free from damage
- Windows lock securely
Bathrooms
- Toilet flushes properly and does not leak
- Sink, bathtub, and shower drain properly
- Faucets and showerheads work and have no leaks
- Exhaust fan operational
- Cabinets and mirrors in good condition
Laundry Room
- Washer/dryer connections functional
- Ventilation adequate
- No signs of water damage or leaks
HVAC & Plumbing
- Heating and cooling systems operational
- No visible water leaks or plumbing issues
- Water heater functioning correctly
Safety & Security
- Fire extinguisher present (if required)
- Door locks, deadbolts, and peepholes secure
- No visible pest infestations
Roof
- Check for missing, damaged, or curling shingles.
- Look for signs of leaks, moss, or sagging areas.
- Inspect flashing, vents, and chimney condition.
Gutters & Drainage
- Ensure gutters are clean and properly attached.
- Downspouts should direct water away from the foundation.
- Look for signs of water damage on siding or foundation.
Foundation & Structure
- Check for cracks, uneven settling, or signs of shifting.
- Look for water pooling around the base of the home.
Exterior Walls & Siding
- Inspect for cracks, peeling paint, rot, or pest damage.
- Ensure siding or brickwork is in good shape.
Windows & Doors
- Check for broken seals, condensation between panes, or cracks.
- Ensure proper sealing and weatherproofing.
Decks, Patios, & Porches
- Inspect for rotting wood, loose boards, or rusted fasteners.
- Check for structural stability and secure railings.
Driveway & Walkways
- Look for cracks, uneven surfaces, or drainage issues.
- Ensure tenants are parking in the designated parking area.
Pool & Hot Tub (if applicable)
- Water clean and chemically balanced
- Pool/hot tub pump and filtration system operational
- No visible leaks or damage to structure
- Safety features (fencing, covers, alarms) in place and functional
- Pool deck and surrounding area free from hazards
- Heater (if applicable) working properly
- Hot tub jets operational
- Proper signage and emergency shut-off available
Benefits of Professional Property Inspections
Frequent inspections, such as move-in, quarterly, and move-out inspections, will help keep the property in top shape with desirable living conditions. If you check up on your property routinely, problems will be spotted sooner, and therefore will be addressed in a timely manner.
In addition, a landlord who communicates the desire to perform frequent inspections can oftentimes prove to be an attentive and promising landlord. A history of regular rental inspections shows the tenant that the property will most likely remain well-maintained throughout their tenancy and will improve tenant satisfaction and a steady passive income.
Hiring a property manager who conducts your rental property inspections provides peace of mind to landlords and property owners. Through mid-year and quarterly inspections, you can stay informed about your property’s condition, address issues promptly, and hold tenants accountable for lease agreements.
An experienced property manager will take over the daily operations of your property, allowing you to reap the benefits of your investment with little to no work. At The Listing Real Estate Management, our full-service property management includes:
- Marketing and leasing
- Tenant screening
- Rent collection
- Maintenance and repairs
- Rental property accounting
- 12-month tenant guarantee
Whether you’re a first time rental property owner or an experienced investor, working with a property manager who conducts professional property inspections can make all the difference in your property’s success.
At The Listing Real Estate Management, your boutique property manager, our years of experience in the Orlando real estate industry have equipped us with the skills to help you manage your property, and optimize your income and financial returns.
Contact us today to get started on your property management journey with our best-in class hospitality and services! Cheers!
