When you rent a place, you will have to perform a joint inspection of the property with your landlord at the beginning of your lease period. You will perform another joint inspection when you vacate the property. The purpose of these inspections is to assess the condition of the property at both the beginning and the end of the lease period. Joint inspections are essential in determining who is liable for repairs or damages to the property. As a future tenant, when you conduct your joint inspection at the beginning of the lease period, it is beneficial to be as extensive as possible. Having an extensive record of the original condition of the property means that you can protect yourself against any future liability for damage that was caused before you took occupation of the property.
Here are some important factors to look out for as a tenant when performing the joint inspection of the property.
Floors
The floor is generally the first thing you notice in an apartment or house. Make sure that the carpets have been cleaned. They should not be stained or smell bad. Check that there are no snags or tears. Where there is carpeting, check to see that the carpeting is everywhere and that no pieces are missing.
For tiled floors, check to see that no tiles are missing, scraped, scuffed or popping out. If your floors are wooden, check that there are no loose or rotten parts.
Walls
Check every wall carefully before you move in. Look to see that the paint is not chipped or peeling in any place. Ensure that there are no stains on the walls. Inspect the walls for holes where posters or pictures might have decorated the walls.
Windows
Check to see whether you can actually open the windows. Make sure that the windows aren’t leaky. Inspect the glass for any chips, cracks and even missing panes. You need to check that the windows operate correctly and can lock and open from the inside. The glass should be clean and free from any mould and mildew.
Check any blinds and curtains. They should work properly. Inspect for any snags. Confirm that they are clean and without stain or mould.
Electricity
Test all the light switches to check that they work. Are any damaged? Check your outlets with a small appliance to see that each one works.
Bathrooms
Test the shower to see that it works correctly. Does the water flow and is it able to get hot and cold? Inspect the walls for any missing or damaged tiles and mould. Check that the toilet is clean and working. Does the toilet run when not in use? Does it leak? Also check that the taps operate properly. Note any damage to taps or porcelain. Check the plumbing for any leaks. Also check that the plumbing allows for effective draining.
Doors
Make sure that all the doors fit into their door frames correctly. Also check that the locks on the doors (most importantly, doors to the outside) function properly and are secure.
Note how many sets of keys you are given to your apartment or house.
Need help regarding a joint inspection?
If you require any advice regarding the joint inspection of rental property, please do not hesitate to contact us on [email protected].