Going to a home inspection when renting a property can be a challenge for renters and even experienced home inspectors. However, inspecting a home is more than just checking its interior. Always exercise caution when making the decision to rent a property and do not let the wall decorations and furnishings on the property affect you. There are always things that should be focused on when looking through the property to ensure that there will be no problems in the near future.
It is recommended that you take into account the building’s structures and state of repair as much as you admire the layout of furniture placement or the color shade on the wall. If you’re serious about renting the property, it can be rewarding to be thorough. A few simple maintenance checks can sometimes be the difference between renting your ideal home and falling into a costly nightmare.
With that in mind, here are seven things to check when inspecting a property before moving in.
Tips #1 Inspecting for water stains, corrosion, and mold.
Pay particular attention to the walls near the bathrooms and showers for signs of moisture ingress or leaks. Although this is not a structural flaw, it can be expensive to repair.
Tips #2 Inspect the ceilings for any sagging
Look at the ceiling to see if there are any bumps or a “parachute” appearance. This can be done by shining a light on the ceilings with a flashlight. This will reveal any sagging or imperfections in the ceiling tiles.
Tips #3 Look inside the cabinets in all wet areas (kitchen & bathroom)
Examine each closet for mold, mildew, or a damp smell. A damp smell may indicate a leak or increased humidity.
Tips #4 Inspect the walls for any cracks
The inner and outer walls should be checked for large cracks. If you find a major crack, you can report it and ask the developer or landlord (if renting) to fix it. Also, pay attention to small cracks in the hairline. Even if you find cracks in one area of your property, there may be cracks elsewhere.
Tips #5 Inspect the roof lines, gutters, and downpipes
Look at the roof line to make sure it is straight and without sagging. Gutters may look clean from the bottom, but from the top, they may show rust and need replacement. You should also check all roof downspouts for leaks and make sure water is directed to the storm well and not to the ground. Also, especially if you buy or rent a multi-story property, you should pay attention to your drains to make sure they work as intended and that no leaks are found. can lead to structural damage requiring costly maintenance.
Tips #6 Test all power outlets, switches, and electrical components
Turn on all available switches and verify that all electrical devices such as ceiling fans, lights, heater switches, and electrical outlets are working as intended. If possible, bring test probes to check sockets and other electrical devices.
Tips #7 Inspect the doors and gates on the property
Check and move each door or gate to make sure it can be opened and closed. Also, check the door frame for cracks or misalignment that could prevent the door from closing properly. Also, check each doorknob to make sure it works properly and is not binding.
Now that we have shared these tips, you can use this article as a checklist for the things that you could look out for when you are inspecting a property before you move in and if you’re ever in doubt, ask a professional inspector to assess the property and provide you with a detailed report on its state of repair. Here is an overview checklist of things to check when inspecting a property before moving in.
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Source: Final Inspection Checklist: Top 10 Things You Need to Check Before Moving In
