After weeks of reviewing potential rental properties, you’ve finally narrowed down your top choices. Before you schedule that ocular visit and move forward with closing the deal, it is vital to have a rental property inspection list to guide you through every stage of the process.
In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide to inspecting a property before formalizing your lease contract.
Your Rental Property Inspection Checklist
When you schedule a property viewing with the owner or their authorized broker, use this opportunity to thoroughly inspect the property. Take your time to examine each room in detail. If you are considering a fully-furnished rental, check the working condition of all appliances and furniture included. Below is a detailed list of what to look for:
Exteriors
Ensure that all doors open and close properly. Test all keys once these are handed over. Now, inspect the windows for any cracks or gaps that can potentially lead to water damage. Note any damages spotted.
Electrical
Ask the owner or broker to turn on the circuit breaker upon entering the property. Test light fixtures for proper functioning and identify any flickering bulbs that may need replacing. As for electrical outlets, you can easily test these by inserting a phone charger. Once again, note any necessary fixes and communicate these to the owner.
The Living and Dining Rooms
The love for biophilic design and wellness-oriented homes is not going away soon, and this year is no exception. As people embrace more mindful and holistic lifestyles, wellness-focused decor and furniture allow them to live life in harmony and serenity, as the home continues to be their safe haven and refuge. Indoor plants have an observed impact on psychological and physiological stress, so organize your greenery on a multi-level wooden rack. If you work or study from home, invest in functional furniture that enhances productivity, such as an ergonomic chair, a standing desk, or a sofa filled with high-quality foam for your home office. These pieces can make work-from-home more manageable.
The Bedrooms
A lot of social time is spent in the living and dining rooms so any damages to walls, floors, and ceilings will be easily spotted sooner or later. If the unit is fully furnished, ensure tables and chairs are in good condition without broken legs or damaged and dirty upholstery.
The Kitchen
Kitchens are high-traffic areas and if the property is on the older side, it will have seen better days if the interiors have not been properly maintained. Inspect the sink for good water flow and check for any pipe leaks. As for countertops, look for any possible damages such as cracked edges on the marble.
If the kitchen comes equipped with a stove, range hood, refrigerator, microwave, and other appliances, ensure that these are also in working condition. Open the fridge and oven to check if any deep cleaning is required. On the other hand, if you plan to bring in your own appliances, take this opportunity to take any measurements.
Finally, ask the owner about recent maintenance, such as septic tank cleaning, which should be conducted by a professional every three years. Furthermore, check for possible termite infestations in wood cabinets, and do the same for built-in closets in other rooms. Signs of termites include sunken or bulging spots on wood, small holes, mud tubes, and dust mounds.
The Bathrooms
Inspect all bathroom hardware, including the toilet, countertop and sink, pipes, showerheads, and water heaters. Check for any dirty tiles that may require cleaning or re-grouting.
Other Considerations
If the unit comes with a parking slot, include this in your ocular. Test the mailbox key and check for overlooked utility bills, especially if the property has been vacant.
A final note before moving in
Once you have formalized your lease contract and are ready to move in, follow up on any repairs the landlord would have undertaken. It is also a good idea to conduct one more site visit with your rental inspection list in hand before bringing in your items.
Find a Rockwell property that suits your needs at Rockwell Leasing and Secondary Sales. From spacious studio units to three-bedroom penthouse properties, Rockwell Leasing and Secondary Sales lets you compare properties across its communities in Metro Manila.
Contact Rockwell Leasing and Secondary Sales today to learn more and experience the signature Rockwell lifestyle and its distinct exclusivity, security, convenience, and accessibility.