Today we’re talking about what you should expect if you get called to have a rental inspection. This is a common thing that’s happening in Stevensville and around southwest Michigan. Municipalities are requiring rental inspections more frequently. When you turn your property from a primary residence to a rental property, you need to register it with your local municipality. Once you are in their database, they will contact you periodically for a rental inspection. Most municipalities are doing them every two years and there are a couple things to keep in mind.
These inspections are usually pretty quick. It shouldn’t take any more than 10 minutes per unit. The inspector is usually someone from the fire department, and they will go through the property and flag any items that may be a safety hazard. So make sure your smoke detectors work and have fresh batteries. They should also be placed in proper rooms. If the tenant is doing something wrong like using extension cords where they shouldn’t, the inspector will address it. They might also look for peeling paint which could be a lead based paint hazard. After the inspection is complete, the inspector will send you a list of things to correct.
If you take good care of your properties, these rental inspections are pretty easy. If there’s a lot of work that needs to be done, you’ll have a long list. These inspections are a good thing. They force landlords to take proper care of their rental homes. They also hold tenants accountable and help you ensure they have the place in order.
If you have any questions about these rental inspections, or you need help preparing, please contact us at Real Property Management Southwest Michigan. We’d be happy to help you.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
