With all the hype on utilizing reliable property inspection software, going back the basics can be a meaningful endeavor. Why are inspections done in the first place? In essence, the process of examining a home is often related to the sale or rental of that property. This is done by a home inspector who has been trained and certified to perform such duty. He or she makes an elaborate report and submits it to the client who is the property owner. In this report, the condition of the property is elucidated giving the client enough time to fix damages before a purchase or lease agreement can be made.
Home inspection should not be confused with real estate appraisal. A property inspector assesses the condition of a structure, whereas an appraiser dictates the value of the house. While homeowners can hire independent inspectors, most would go to a property management office that has a proven track record in the industry. In this regard, there are three types of property inspection handled by managers for rented homes: ingoing, routine, and outgoing.
Ingoing inspections
An ingoing inspection is conducted when a new property is placed under a company’s management. The report made from this type of inspection is called an Entry Condition Report, a vital document that serves as evidence should disputes arise over the condition of the house in the near future. It is important for the inspector to take note of all damages, big or small, in order to come up with an honest report that benefits both the owner and the tenant by all accounts.
Routine Inspections
For rented properties, routine inspections may be done in order to see if the property is being properly maintained by the tenants. This is done to ensure preservation of the home and to discourage tenants from irresponsible behavior that may lead to property damages. It is within the owner’s discretion on how many times he or she conducts a routine inspection every year. Often times, this type of inspection is done every six months, or less for short-term contracts, in order to have ongoing documentation dedicated to the property.
Outgoing Inspections
When tenants decide to move out, outgoing inspections are done in order to see if they are liable for certain property damages. Management companies that use property inspection software are usually called in to do this as properties have high chances to incur damages after being leased. Should the report determine any liability on the tenants’ part, they may be asked to pay for the fees required to restore the property. Notwithstanding, occupants are not to be held responsible for the normal wear and tear of some aspects of the house. Faded wallpapers and rusty pipes, for example, are natural occurrences in a house that has been occupied for a long time. The report made from an outgoing inspection will be then used by the property owner to facilitate the renovation of the house before the next tenant settles in.
