Searching for more information on how often you should inspect your rental property? Rental properties are a great investment but the reality is that inspections are a critical task that most landlords often are severely lacking.
Some landlords are not inspecting enough and they very quickly realize that lack of inspections is killing their business because they are spending more time and money to get their properties back into rent ready shape after their previous tenants have moved out.
In their article we will share with you tips on how often you should be inspecting your rental properties in Portland Oregon and how to conduct the inspection.
How Often?
Most property managers and experienced landlords recommend inspecting the property every 3 to 6 months during an active lease. This frequency allows the landlord to check on the home’s general condition, identify any maintenance issues, and ensure the tenant is complying with the lease terms (such as rules about smoking, pets, or unauthorized occupants).
While quarterly inspections may seem frequent, they’re justified in certain situations—such as when a landlord suspects lease violations or the property has a history of maintenance issues. For long-term tenants who have proven to be reliable and respectful, a biannual inspection (every six months) might be sufficient.
Annual Inspections
Landlords should conduct an annual inspection at a minimum. This should be a thorough evaluation of the entire property, including the interior, exterior, and key systems like plumbing, HVAC, and appliances. It is also a great time to test smoke alarms, replace air filters, and perform preventative maintenance.
Annual inspections serve as an opportunity to communicate with tenants, address concerns, and schedule upgrades or improvements. They’re often the most acceptable compromise between proactive property management and tenant privacy.
Move-Out Inspection
At the end of the lease, a move-out inspection is conducted to compare the property’s condition against the move-in report. This helps determine whether any portion of the security deposit should be withheld for damages beyond normal wear and tear. Ideally, the tenant should be present to discuss any issues in real time and provide clarification if needed.
Emergency or Issue-Based Inspections
If a tenant reports a serious problem—like a leaking pipe, pest infestation, or unsafe condition—the landlord should schedule an immediate inspection to assess the situation. These inspections are outside the regular schedule and are necessary to ensure habitability and protect the property from damage.
Additionally, suppose neighbors or others report suspicious activity or code violations. In that case, a landlord may be within their rights to investigate, as long as proper notice is given and local laws are followed.
Respecting Tenant Privacy and Legal Notice
Even if inspections are justified, landlords must follow local laws regarding notice. Most states require landlords to provide 24 to 48 hours written notice before entering the rental unit, except in emergencies. It’s also best practice to schedule inspections at a convenient time for the tenant and to be respectful while in the home.
Unannounced or overly frequent rental property inspections can be harassment and violate tenant rights. Being transparent and professional with inspection notices helps maintain a positive landlord-tenant relationship.
Regular inspections are crucial for protecting a rental property and fostering accountability, but they should always be done with fairness and clear communication. A good rule of thumb is to perform move-in and move-out inspections, annual inspections, and one or two routine check-ins during the lease term—more if there’s a clear need.
By staying proactive and respectful, landlords can maintain the value of their investment, prevent costly surprises, and ensure their tenants feel safe and supported.
Why waste time inspecting your rental properties yourself? Let our team simplify the inspection process for you!
Learn more about the property management services that we can offer you by calling us at (503) 646-9664 – Talk to a Live Person – Our office answers the phone 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday – or click here to connect with us online.
