Phoenix, Arizona, is an excellent choice for astute property investors wanting to expand their portfolios. The city has a growing economy and record-high employment levels that attract new residents from across the country.
The housing market is competitive, with rising home and rental prices, so you needn't worry about your investment losing its value any time soon. That doesn't mean you can rest on your laurels after buying a rental property in this exciting city.
Regular rental property inspections are a vital task for every landlord. Read to find out more about the best inspection practices for Phoenix landlords.
Laws Regarding Rental Property Inspections
In Arizona, tenants have the right to quiet enjoyment when they rent a property. This means landlords can't enter the premises whenever they please.
Landlords may only enter a rental unit to carry out:
- Improvements
- Maintenance
- Repairs
- Home showings
- Routine inspections
In the case of emergencies, landlords do not need to give the tenants any notice of their arrival. At all other times, they must provide 48 hours' notice.
Property Inspection Frequency
Every landlord should conduct three types of inspections. These are:
Move-in Inspections
It's important to inspect rental properties with your tenants present before they move in. This prevents any misunderstandings later on.
During this inspection, you can identify any areas that need attention and agree to any repairs and maintenance responsibilities beforehand.
The landlord should give the tenant a copy of the initial inspection report. This paperwork is important for identifying any damages caused by the tenant and calculating any amounts owed for repairs.
Property Maintenance Inspections
Landlord property maintenance inspections may take place annually, seasonally, or quarterly. These inspections are a good opportunity to check up on vital components of your rental unit and prevent small issues from becoming major repairs or replacements.
Prompt attention to any maintenance issues or repair requests can encourage lease renewals.
Some things to check during a routine inspection include:
- Interior and exterior condition of the home
- HVAC filters
- Smoke detector batteries
- Fire extinguishers
- Water leaks or damage
- Pest infestations
- Window and door seals
- Appliances
Routine inspections can also reveal lease infringements, like unauthorized pets, unreasonable damages, or extra occupants in the unit.
Move-Out Inspections
Move-out inspections work hand-in-hand with move-in inspections. Some landlords prefer to conduct these inspections before the lease expires.
This gives them time to clear up any issues related to damages beyond normal wear and tear and deduct the costs from the tenant's security deposit.
A Property Manager Simplifies Property Inspections
Ongoing rental property inspections, property maintenance, and repairs can prove time-consuming and stressful for landlords. Hiring a property manager is the best way to avoid this.
Property Management Real Estate Services, Inc. is a leading Phoenix property management company based in Peoria. Our team is well-versed in every aspect of property management and has many years of combined experience in real estate.
We offer a full range of services, including property inspections, property maintenance, and tenant administration tasks. Discover how we can help you manage your Phoenix properties most effectively today.