The exterior of a building is a vital part of its structure and protection. It also determines a property’s curb appeal and attracts potential customers. That’s why property inspection are a must. They also help prevent costly repairs and legal issues down the line.

The process involves examining different aspects of the building and taking documented logs. These help establish the need for remedial work and provide evidence for insurance claims or risk assessments.

Exterior

Inspectors examine the general condition of a building’s exterior elements. They look for cracks or deterioration that could indicate structural problems. They also check if the walls are properly attached and whether they can sustain water damage.

The inspectors also examine fences and gates. They look for signs that they’re sagging or drag on the ground, which can indicate a loose post. They also look for rusty nails, which can cause serious damage to the wood. They also examine the drainage system to ensure it is functioning well. They check if the gutters are properly sloped, and they also look for blockages and leakage points.

Interior

During the interior property inspection, inspectors examine a variety of areas to assess their condition. This includes checking for signs of leaks, water damage and pest infiltration. They also ensure windows and doors are properly insulated and working well.

A property inspection offers an x-ray of a home’s condition and provides valuable insights for both landlords and tenants. This process empowers landlords to identify and resolve issues before they become more serious, while helping tenants gain confidence in a safe and comfortable living environment.

It is crucial to carefully document any findings during a property inspection. This documentation will serve as a reference point for any discussions about maintenance issues or problems and can be helpful for facilitating repairs. It’s also important to notify all stakeholders about the upcoming inspection. This includes notifying tenants, if applicable, to ensure that the property is readily accessible during the inspection. This will avoid unnecessary interruptions and disruptions to tenants’ daily routines.

Issues & Repairs

Property inspections provide valuable insight into a building’s current condition, highlighting issues that can inform repair negotiations or price adjustments. They also help property owners prepare for future maintenance by identifying potential concerns early.

A home inspection may reveal extensive structural damage, electrical hazards or major plumbing problems. These issues could be deal breakers for some buyers, depending on their risk tolerance and budget.

Other repairs, like cosmetic damage, are often left unaddressed by inspectors as they are considered normal wear and tear and do not affect the structural integrity of the building. However, if pest infestation is found it should definitely be included in a buyer’s request list.

Lastly, any issues discovered by an inspector that are deemed major should be addressed prior to closing. Failure to do so could result in costly complications down the road, such as water damage or mold. These issues are often a cause of insurance claims and can be a big financial burden on new owners.

Documentation

A property inspection is a critical safety net that empowers buyers with detailed insight into the condition of a home. Inspecting a property ensures there are no surprises during the sales process or after a purchase, as well as ensuring that ongoing maintenance is being addressed.

A quality inspection checklist should cover all major areas of the property including exterior, interior, utilities and any unique aspects. Include space for inspectors to note their observations and any issues found to keep all parties involved in property transactions or rental agreements informed of the property’s true condition.

Using an inspection reporting app like Manifestly makes it easy to complete and document inspections on the go, with submissions automatically converting into PDF reports for later review. Share reports with tenants, contractors or owners with complete control over who sees the documents and when. This eliminates the need for handwritten notes and messy records that can be difficult to interpret, while also providing a more accurate representation of a property’s condition.