The main purpose of an inspection is to check the condition of the property inside and outside. It also records any repairs or maintenance needed.
They allow you to keep up to date on maintenance. It's also a useful reminder to your tenants on how they should be looking after the property. It's also a good way of maintaining a good relationship with your tenants.
As well as inspections at the start and end of the tenancy, regular checks throughout the year are useful.
An inspection every three months is acceptable. More than that can start to invade the tenants privacy.
Explain to the tenant when they move in, that you intend to carry out periodic inspections.
The 1988 Housing Act gives a tenant the right to live, undisturbed, in a property for an agreed time and rent. The tenant has the right to ‘quiet enjoyment’,. This means the right to make use of their home without disturbance from the landlord or anyone acting on their behalf.
The Act also allows landlords to enter the premises to view its ‘condition and state of repair’.
Landlords do not have the right to turn up at the property unannounced and demand entry.
The tenant should be given at least 24 hours' notice, ideally in writing. The inspection should take place at a ‘reasonable time of the day’.
In an emergency you can enter the property without giving notice or getting the tenant’s consent.
An emergency includes:
Your common sense should dictate if you think something is an ‘emergency situation’.
Even if the tenancy agreement allows it, and there's no emergency or suspicion of illegal activity, your tenant CAN legally refuse you access.
The date you suggested might not be convenient for them. In that case, arrange a new date. The tenant might also refuse access due to illness, mental health issues, or a viral pandemic. Be reasonable, willing, and flexible to find a time that works for both of you.
This checklist helps landlords know what to look for during routine inspections. It is not exhaustive, and you may come across matters of concern that are not listed. You should always seek further advice if you have concerns.
A good source of information about whether your property meets the standard is the EPC report, particularly relating to damp and condensation issues.