Regular property inspections can save Ocala landlords thousands of dollars. Though there’s an upfront cost, the savings from missed maintenance issues are significant.
These can include problems with your HVAC, electrical, plumbing, roof, and more. Florida also ranks high on the list of states with mold problems. Mold can be hazardous if left untreated and can cost thousands to remediate.
A rental property inspection checklist covers every area of your property. This helps keep you on top of maintenance issues to sustain your property value.
It can also improve your relationship with your tenants as it shows your willingness to provide a safe environment for them to live in. Read on to learn more.
The Importance of Rental Property Inspections in Ocala
Ocala’s booming economy and job market make it one of the best areas in Central Florida to own a rental property. This also makes the market competitive, so you’ll want your rental to stand out.
Rental property inspections can help protect your real estate investment. They allow you to assess your property’s condition throughout the rental cycle.
Once tenants are leasing the property, they are present during the inspection. However, many property managers and landlords perform them between tenancies.
These inspections ensure tenants comply with the rental agreement. They also help identify damages or defects throughout the property. Regular inspections help safeguard tenants and can reduce long-term maintenance costs.
Ocala, Florida: Legal Requirements for Rental Inspections
The legal requirements for rental inspection in Ocala allow landlords or their representatives to enter rented premises. However, they must provide reasonable notice to the tenant.
The law defines reasonable notice as 12 hours before entry. They must also make repairs to the premises at a reasonable time. The law defines this as between 7:30 am and 8 pm.
Landlords and tenants must follow applicable building, housing, and health codes. Landlords must maintain the plumbing in good working condition. They also need to keep structural components in good repair.
Tenants must keep the property sanitary and clean. This includes removing garbage and ensuring plumbing fixtures are working and clean. They also cannot destroy or deface the property.
Ocala, Florida Rental Property Inspection Checklist
There are essential items every Central Florida home inspection checklist should include. These may vary depending on the type of property owned. They can be categorized as follows:
Exterior Inspection
Exterior house inspections should include landscaping and curb appeal. It also involves checking the roofing system, exterior walls, windows, and doors.
Landscaping and Curb Appeal
A major part of exterior inspections is landscaping and curb appeal. It will involve examining the landscape for damaged or dead shrubs and trees. This also includes ensuring tree branches cannot damage nearby windows or gutters. Bare patches on the lawn were also identified during this inspection.
Roof, Gutters, and Drainage
The gutter system should be free from rust, holes, or cracks. It should also be adequately sized to prevent runoff. Downspouts should divert water away from the property’s foundation.
Exterior Walls and Paint
This part of the inspection includes examining the chimneys, siding, eaves, and trim. It should identify any damage such as rotting wood, cracking or flaking paint, or structural issues. These checks also help to determine if there’s an issue with pests and weather damage.
Windows and Doors
Examining the weather stripping and caulking will reveal if window and door seals are air and watertight. It will also help to identify gaps and cracks in window and door frames. All locks and hinges should be checked as well.
Interior Inspection
This is typically the major part of inspections. It thoroughly looks at appliances, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems. Floors, walls, and safety features, including smoke detectors, are also examined.
Kitchen Appliances and Plumbing
Appliance inspections involve checking appliance features and functionality. It also looks for any signs of damage.
A plumbing inspection will assess the following:
- Water pressure
- Plumbing fixtures
- The water heater
- Drains
- Shutoff valves
- Sewer lines
- Toilets
The entire plumbing system will also be checked for leaks.
Electrical Systems and Outlets
An electrical inspection examines:
- Grounding systems
- Wiring
- The electrical panel and breaker
- Lighting and switches
It should also identify any defective work or outdated wiring.
HVAC Systems
The inspection of the HVAC system will require a trained technician. They will examine the system’s furnace, vents, air conditioner, and ductwork. This involves cleaning and testing all the components, to ensure they work properly. They will also check for signs of damage or wear.
Flooring and Walls
These inspections may vary based on the type of flooring in your property. In general, the inspection should identify any damage. This can include loose boards or tiles, cracks, buckling, warping, etc.
When inspecting the walls, look for holes in the drywall, or damage caused by nails or fixtures. Check both your ceiling and walls for leaks or water damage. Warped door frames and flaking paint are usually an indication of water damage.
You should expect the paint to deteriorate due to normal wear and tear. However, this should not include heavy dirt or scuff marks.
Safety Features
Both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have test buttons. If the detector makes a loud sound when you press the test button, the detector is in good working condition. If the sound is faint or non-existent, replace the batteries.
If you have fire extinguishers, ensure they’re still full. The pressure gauge should be in the operable position. Examine them for physical damage, leakage, and corrosion, and ensure the nozzle isn’t clogged.
Safeguarding Your Rental Property in Ocala, Florida
Rental properties are a great investment when you have regular tenants. This is often dependent on the market and the attractiveness of your property. The former usually isn’t an issue due to Ocala’s booming economy. Your home repair practices will determine the latter.
A rental property inspection checklist can help keep your property in optimal condition. Central Florida Building Inspectors can provide you with one that covers all areas of your rental. We also offer a range of residential inspection services.
We pride ourselves on our extensive experience and knowledge of local construction practices. Both allow us to perform thousands of accurate inspections annually. We can do the same for you.
Let us help you safeguard your rental property. Schedule your inspection today!
