Once tenants are in your property, one of the best ways to ensure they’re following the rules in your tenancy agreement is to schedule regular inspections. However, it’s important to remember that you can’t just pop in whenever you like. Inspections are about more than just quickly checking that the space is tidy.
Why do I need to carry out property inspections?
The main purpose of an inspection is to evaluate the overall condition of the interior and exterior of your rental property. While it’s important to make regular inspections, it’s just as important not to make too many (unless there’s a genuine need for repairs that need attention) as unnecessary visits could strain the relationship with your tenants.
The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 gives landlords the right to enter the premises to view the “condition and state of repair”.
What are my rights of access as a landlord?
By following the rules set out in the Housing Act 1988, you can stay compliant and protect your property. You are required to give tenants at least 24 hours’ notice before an inspection. And if you don’t, they have the right to refuse entry.
It’s important to schedule visits at reasonable times of the day, giving your tenants the opportunity to be home if they wish. While a time like 3pm on a Tuesday might seem convenient to you, it could be unreasonable if your tenant works standard office hours.
Remember, even if you have a spare key, you should never enter the property without permission. Always knock or ring the bell and wait for your tenant to invite you in.
However, if you’re providing specific services, such as cleaning, that are outlined in the tenancy agreement, you may have the right to access the property without notice to carry out those tasks. If you’re unsure, always refer to your tenancy agreement to confirm your rights.
Can landlords enter a rental property in an emergency?
Hopefully, an emergency never happens. But if it does, there are certain situations where you’re allowed to enter your rental property without your tenants’ consent:
- If you suspect there’s violent criminal activity happening inside your property
- If there’s a fire
- If you can smell gas
- If there's structural damage that needs urgent repairs
What to look for during a property inspection
During the inspection you're looking for any signs of your tenants breaching the tenancy agreement, as well as checking to see if anything needs to be repaired or replaced. It's also a good time to have a chat with your tenants to make sure they're happy, to discuss any potential issues and work out how what you can do to help solve them.
Legal checks
As a landlord, it’s your duty and to ensure your property is legally compliant and a safe place for your tenants to live. Essential checks include:
- Testing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they’re fit for purpose
- Ensuring all heating, water and electricity supplies are working properly
- That all fire exit routes are clear of furniture and easily accessible
Overall condition
It’s a good idea to check for signs of wear and tear. Spotting any problems early allows you to get repairs done before they become a bigger and potentially more expensive issue. When carrying out inspections of your rental property, keep an eye out on the following areas:
- Ensure handrails are secure
- Check furniture for any damage and replace if necessary
- Make sure white goods and fittings are in good working condition
- Look for any damage, mould or dampness on walls and floors
- Check that doors and windows lock and open properly
Health checks
In order to maintain a good landlord-tenant relationship, you want to make sure the home is comfortable for your tenants, without posing any hazards to their health. It’s a good idea to look out for:
It’s a good idea to look out for:
- Blocked drains
- Signs of mould and mildew
- Leaks or plumbing issues
- Signs of vermin such as mice and cockroaches
Breaches to the tenancy agreement
It’s important to be aware that tenants may sometimes unintentionally or unknowingly do things that go against the agreement. For example, paying attention to tell-tale smells can help you identify if they’ve been smoking or keeping pets, so you can address any concerns calmly and professionally.
How often should I inspect my rental property?
You don't want to be constantly popping in on your tenants, or surprising them with 24-hours notice. When you start the tenancy, agree on an inspection schedule – quarterly (every three months) is a good amount of time between checks.
Can my tenant refuse me access to my property?
Tenants have the right to refuse access to their property. In most cases, this is because the proposed dates and times are inconvenient for them, and they’ll suggest alternative times to reschedule.
A tenant also has the right to change the locks if they feel you’ve entered unlawfully. That’s why maintaining a positive relationship and communicating openly about inspections is so important.
If the situation becomes serious or disputes escalate, you may need to apply for a court order or serve a notice of eviction. Remember, clear communication and mutual respect are essential for a healthy, calm relationship with your tenants.
Whether this is your first time letting out a property or you’re a seasoned pro, there are some basic essentials every landlord needs to stay on top of. AXA’s guide provides you with a handy checklist of key things to remember when renting out your property, helping you plan for the unexpected and keep everything running smoothly!
