A rental property inspection helps a landlord or property manager check the home’s condition, identify maintenance needs, and confirm that key safety and tenancy obligations are being addressed. Knowing what will happen can make the visit straightforward for everyone. Before the inspection, review the notice and arrange access as required under your tenancy agreement and ACT rules. During the visit, expect a visual check rather than a deep clean or a search through personal belongings. Clear communication afterward helps resolve any issues.
Prepare Before the Visit
Read the inspection notice carefully and check the proposed date, time, and expected duration. In the ACT, entry for a routine inspection requires proper notice and must follow the applicable tenancy rules. If the timing creates a genuine problem, contact the property manager promptly to discuss a suitable alternative. Do not assume you need to be home unless the notice or arrangements require it.
Tenants can make the home accessible by securing pets, moving items away from areas that need attention, and noting any repairs they want to raise. You generally do not need to make the property spotless. Landlords and managers should bring a checklist, review previous inspection notes, and allow enough time to assess the home respectfully.
What Inspectors Commonly Check
A routine inspection typically involves a visual review of the property’s general condition. The inspector may check walls, floors, doors, windows, fixtures, and appliances supplied with the rental. They may also look for signs of leaks, dampness, damage, pest activity, or ventilation problems, along with the condition of outdoor areas where those are part of the tenancy.
The visit should focus on the property, not on judging a tenant’s lifestyle. An inspector should respect privacy and avoid opening personal storage or handling belongings without a proper reason and authority. The inspection is not automatically a formal safety assessment or a substitute for qualified tradespeople. If something needs specialist attention, the manager should arrange an appropriate follow-up.
Raise Maintenance Concerns Clearly
Tell the property manager about repair issues as soon as you notice them rather than waiting for the next inspection. During the visit, point out the location and explain when the problem began, whether it is getting worse, and what you have observed. Photos can help show an intermittent leak, damage, or another issue that may not be obvious during a brief visit.
For urgent problems that threaten health, safety, or cause further damage, use the contact method provided for urgent repairs and follow the tenancy process. Do not assume that mentioning an issue during a routine inspection is enough to start urgent action. If you are unsure whether a repair is urgent, describe the risk clearly and ask the manager what steps to take.
Follow Up Afterward
After the inspection, the manager should record relevant observations and communicate any necessary actions. Ask for clarification if a requested task, repair, or deadline is unclear. Keep messages, photos, and any inspection summary together so you can refer to them later. For landlords, written records help track recurring issues, contractor visits, and the condition of the property over time.
If a repair has been identified, confirm who will arrange access, whether a tradesperson will contact you, and how updates will be shared. Report any change in the problem promptly, especially if it becomes more serious. Canberra Key Property can help landlords coordinate inspection notes and maintenance follow-up, while tenants should continue to report repair requests through their designated property contact.
A well-run rental inspection is a practical check of the home’s condition, supported by proper notice, respectful access, and clear records. Prepare a short list of concerns, report urgent issues through the correct channel, and confirm next steps in writing. For help coordinating a property inspection or maintenance follow-up, contact your property manager.