Free Property Inspection Checklist

A Rental Property Inspection Checklist is a crucial document that outlines the condition of a property at a specific time.

This type of document is primarily used by landlords and property managers to document the state of a property before a tenant moves in and after they move out.

Also known as a Tenancy Checkout Report or Checkout Inventory, this document serves as a reference for any deductions taken from the security deposit to cover damages not attributed to normal wear and tear.

Below you’ll find an example of a completed Checkout Inventory.

A property checkout report is essential for maintaining a record of the condition of a property at the end of a tenancy and can serve as a critical tool for landlords, property managers, and tenants.

Here are some specific scenarios when you should use a Property Checkout Report:

• At the end of a lease: Use when a lease ends to ensure both parties agree on the property's final condition.
• For residential and commercial properties: Necessary for all types of leased property, including offices, retail spaces, and industrial sites, and residential spaces such as flats, houses, or rooms in a shared property.
• To record utility meter readings: Recording the final readings of water, gas, and electricity meters can avoid disputes over utility bills.
• To check safety devices: Use the report to verify that all safety devices, like smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, are in working order and compliant with safety regulations.
• To inspect furniture and appliances: Whether the property is furnished or not, the checkout report should include a thorough check and status recording of all appliances and furnishings provided by the landlord.
• Detailed room-by-room analysis: Employ the checkout report to document the condition of each room in the property.
• Before refunding the security deposit: Finalising the checkout report is a step that should precede the refund of any security deposit.
• To update property records: Updating your property management records with the latest condition of the property helps in maintaining accurate data for future reference, which is beneficial for legal, tax, and maintenance planning.

By using a property checkout report in these scenarios, landlords and property managers can ensure a smoother transition between tenants, maintain their property's value, and uphold their legal responsibilities.

When creating a Property Inspection Checklist, you should include these terms:

Structural Components:

• Walls
• Floors
• Ceilings
• Windows
• Fixtures
• Doors
• Lights
• Cabinets

Appliances and Systems:

• Heating
• Plumbing
• Electrical systems

General Cleanliness:

• Overall cleanliness of interiors
• Condition of specific areas

External Conditions:

• Garden
• Patios
• Exterior walls

Each section should clearly define the expected condition to maintain consistency and clarity in property evaluations.

Our UK Rental Property Inspection Checklist template is designed to be easy to use while ensuring you capture all necessary details for a thorough inspection.

Follow these steps to complete the template:

1. Access the template: Select the Property Inspection Report template to get started.
2. Add property information: Enter general property details such as address, type of property, and date of inspection.
3. Provide inspector details: Fill in the name and contact information of the person conducting the inspection.
4. Carry out room-by-room inspection: Go through each room listed in the template. For each room, assess and record the condition of walls, floors, ceilings, windows, and any fixtures.
5. Check appliances and systems: Evaluate the operational status of appliances (refrigerator, oven, etc.) and systems (heating, plumbing, electrical), noting any malfunctions or signs of wear.
6. Inspect General cleanliness and safety: Document the overall cleanliness of the property and check for any safety hazards, noting any issues.
7. Check external areas: Inspect external aspects of the property such as the garden, patios, and any outbuildings. Record their condition and note any required maintenance.
8. Add comments and overall assessment: Provide additional comments on the overall condition of the property and any recommendations for maintenance or repairs.
9. Sign: Ensure that the inspector and, if present during the inspection, the tenant, sign the report to acknowledge the findings.
10. Save and distribute: Save the completed document and provide copies to relevant parties, ensuring both the landlord and tenant have a copy for their records.

These steps will guide you in creating a thorough Property Inspection Report, aiding in clear communication and understanding between you and your tenant.