What Is An Apartment Inspection: Everything You Should Know

An apartment inspection is when a landlord or property manager thoroughly examines a rental property, such as an apartment, to assess its condition and identify any issues or damages.

This rental inspection helps the landlord or property manager document the apartment's condition before and after a resident's occupancy. It is helpful in case of disputes over the security deposit or damages.

However, the primary purpose of a rental inspection is to ensure that the rental property is safe and habitable for residents. Landlords and property managers do them to identify any repairs or maintenance that may be necessary.

Our Guide To Apartment Inspections

As a resident, you are entitled to live in an apartment where everything is safe and works well, from the floors to the walls to gas and electricity connections. The property owner can conduct mandatory apartment inspections to ensure your apartment is in good condition.

What Is A Mandatory Apartment Inspection?

A mandatory inspection is a routine check of an apartment's condition by the landlord or the property manager at a specific time. Landlords and property managers can conduct mandatory apartment inspections when the resident is available.

They do this to ensure that the residents take care of the apartment and adhere to the rental agreement. While typically not required, it's highly recommended you be present during the inspection to address issues.

There are different types of mandatory inspections a landlord can conduct. They include:

• Move-in inspection
• Routine inspections
• Drive-by inspections
• Quarterly inspections
• Move-out inspections
• Change in ownership inspections

All these inspections check the property's condition, ensure residents abide by the property rules, and repair any property damage. The different types of inspections differ in how the landlord conducts them, but they all serve the same purpose.

What Do They Look For In An Apartment Inspection?

During an inspection, the property owners check for anything that requires attention.

With proper notice, the landlord may inspect the smoke detectors, HVAC system, appliances, water heater, and signs of leaking pipes under sinks. Your landlord may also look for signs of pest infestations and electrical problems.

If you are a duplex or single-family home resident, the owner might look at the roof and the gutters. They might also inspect the exterior of your home, looking for signs of structural weakness, cracks, the foundation, sidewalks, and all the appliances.

What Can Lead To Failing An Apartment Inspection?

Several reasons could lead to failing an apartment inspection. Some of the most common reasons include scratches on hardwood floors, unsightly stains, and having pets without permission.

Unauthorized Pets

Having an unauthorized pet may lead to failing an inspection. Keeping unapproved pets will be evident during an apartment inspection, even if the pets stay at a friend's place while the landlord is present. Pet odor, dishes, treats, or damage like chewing are apparent signs of pets that may be deemed lease violations.

Commercial Activities

If you sublease your apartment for commercial purposes, you must inform the landlord first. Operating a vacation rental in the apartment can automatically cause you to fail a home inspection. It may also land you in trouble with city authorities.

Excessive Mold Or Mildew

To avoid fines or eviction, try cleaning up any excess water leaks in your apartment as soon as possible. Excessive mold and mildew indicate that your apartment is damp and could be unhealthy for you to live in.

Broken Appliances

It won't go unnoticed if you have broken appliances. The inspector will want to know if you know about the problem and if you've reported it to management. If you haven't cared to report the matter, they may compel you to pay for expensive repairs.

Grime And Stains

A lease may state that you should always keep your premises clean, in good condition, and habitable. If the landlord notices your apartment is filthy, you could fail your home inspection.

If you know your routine check is near, try to improve your housekeeping skills or seek help. It's better than doing nothing at all. Focus your cleaning on problem areas such as the bathroom and kitchen.

Vandalized Installations

If there are vandalized installations in your apartment, this could result in failing an inspection.

Suppose, for example, you have broken light fixtures or damaged windows due to vandalism inside your unit. This could result in failing an inspection.

If you need help repairing these damages before moving out of an apartment complex, we recommend contacting a handyperson service before the inspection.

Graffiti And Writings

If this is not part of your lease agreement, then there is no reason why your landlord should force you to remove graffiti. But if your lease prohibits it, graffiti could lead to failing a home inspection. A landlord can require you to remove any marks on walls that are visible from the outside, like writings or drawings.

Cracks And Holes In The Walls

Cracks can be a sign of structural damage or water damage. If there are cracks in areas where water can accumulate, such as above sinks, toilets, and tubs, this could indicate a problem with plumbing or leaks from above. The inspector will also check for mold growth, which may indicate an issue with ventilation or drainage in the building.

Overcrowding That Leads To Damage

You may fail a routine inspection when you host too many people, and it causes damage to the appliances and installations.

If too many people live in one unit, it becomes difficult for each person to have their own space and privacy. This can cause conflict between roommates and even damage property if they don't have enough space to move around freely.

Unauthorized Remodels

If you want to make changes, always ask your landlord first. If you try to make changes to your apartment without permission from management — like adding new appliances or fixtures — then you could fail your next inspection.

How Much Notice Should You Get?

It's unlawful for your landlord to show up unannounced. They must give you a 24 - 48 hour notice, with some providing a week for the residents to prepare. If you haven't prepared, you are legally allowed to ask for more time.

The notice letter must always be in writing and should contain the inspection date and time, specifics about the inspection, and who will accompany them. 

This letter may state that the inspection will occur whether or not you are home. You may also have the option to reschedule when available, but this is not always required. 

It's essential to read your lease in advance and understand everything it contains, including the notice. Your lease should state the number of inspections per year or the time they must give you before each inspection.

Can I Avoid An Apartment Inspection?

Sometimes you can avoid an apartment inspection, but it depends on where you live. Chances are, the landlord will always have a legal reason to enter your apartment and perform a routine check.

For instance, RentCheck allows residents to perform inspections independently without anyone else coming onto the property. However, remember that landlords are entitled to access their property at any time.

Simplify Apartment Inspections With RentCheck

Landlords and property managers often find it challenging to conduct rental inspections. Additionally, residents may want to enjoy their privacy without allowing anyone else into their space. To help simplify this daunting process, use the RentCheck app, which saves time and empowers residents to complete their inspections.

RentCheck allows residents to conduct their apartment routine checks and send their reports in real-time. What are you waiting for? Sign up for free and start using RentCheck for your next apartment inspection.