Apartment inspection checklist

Whether you're moving into a new apartment or moving out, apartment inspections are a crucial aspect of property management and renting. Stick around to learn more about what you need to pay attention to ensure your property's condition is up to standard.

Types of apartment inspections

While there are numerous types of rental property inspections, whether you're a landlord or a new tenant, you'll need to prepare for the following:

Move-in inspections

As a landlord or property manager, you're responsible for performing necessary repairs before your new tenants move into the rental property. Ultimately, it is your job to ensure that the property itself is safe to live in. With this information, you'll compile an inspection report, which outlines any existing damage or concerns. Before new renters move in, you are legally required to discuss the results of this report.

As renters, before you move in, you're entitled to do a walk-through of the rental property before the lease agreement is signed. This is your opportunity to view the property's condition and bring up any concerns you may note.

Move-out inspections

Now, during a move-out inspection, tenants are responsible for leaving the property in the state they found it when they originally moved in. Before getting their security deposit back, property managers or landlords will do a final inspection. This is where landlords can determine whether the property condition reflects the original report and whether damages remain from the tenants themselves.

Rental property inspection cleaning checklist

Apartment inspections can be stressful, regardless of whether you're a tenant or landlord. To make things easier, here is a cleaning checklist you can use for any apartment inspections you may have in the future:

1. Clean all of the walls

Before cleaning the walls throughout the rental, you'll want to fill in any holes or cracks that may have occurred. Once fixed with plaster and a fresh coat of paint, you can go ahead and use hot soap and water to remove stains.

2. Sanitize all floors

If there's carpet in the rental, we recommend getting them professionally cleaned to remove stains and odours. Hardwood and tile can be sanitized as normal.

3. Test electrical system

Next on the checklist is to check the electrical system for any hazards. Ensure all lighting in the property works as well.

4. Inspect plumbing

Inspections for plumbing issues are next. Have a professional plumber come to the rental apartment to address any problems.

5. Clean all windows and doors

Clean the inside and outside of all windows and doors, ensuring no stains remain.

6. Test smoke alarms and other security features

To ensure the apartment is safe, check the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, front door locks, and other security features.

7. Clean and inspect appliances

Deep clean appliances and ensure there are no issues with their operation, including the microwave, dishwasher, oven, fridge, washer, dryer, heating, and cooling systems if present.

8. Clean bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchen

Lastly, clean your bathroom, bedrooms, and kitchen to ensure it's spotless.

9. Inspect for pests

Home insurance does not cover pest control. If you are a landlord, you'll need to deal with pest maintenance throughout the apartment

When in doubt, review your lease agreement

If you are unsure what is required of you before moving out, always refer to your lease agreement.

Does landlord insurance cover damage by renters?

If you're a landlord in Canada, you may be wondering whether your landlord insurance covers damage by tenants. The answer to this is yes and no. If your renters intentionally cause damage to your property, you will not be covered by your insurance coverage. However, if your tenants accidentally damage your rental property, you will be covered for any repairs, replacements, and loss of rental income.

Does home insurance cover mould?

If you've discovered mould during your inspection, you may have some questions like, "Does home insurance cover mould?" The truth is it depends. If the mould developed as a result of a covered peril listed in your insurance coverage, then your policy would cover the damages. However, if the cause of the mould development is not listed in your policy and you do not have secondary coverage in place, then you will be responsible for paying for repairs.

What is the difference between comprehensive and broad home insurance?

What's the difference between comprehensive and broad home insurance? Broad home insurance covers your property if it is damaged or destroyed. However, this insurance only protects the belongings in your house if they are damaged or destroyed by a peril listed on your property. Comprehensive insurance, on the other hand, covers both your home and your personal belongings in the event of damage or loss. Ultimately, broad insurance covers more of the physical structure of your home rather than the contents.

Is it possible to invalidate home insurance?

Yes, invalidating home insurance is possible. Whether it be failing to report an at-home business in your home, lying about the value of your personal belongings during an insurance claim, conducting criminal activities on your property, or even failing to maintain your property with year-round home maintenance tasks, the list goes on. To ensure you don't invalidate your coverage, remain truthful with your insurance company at all times.

What can a landlord check during an inspection?

If you have an upcoming property inspection with your landlord, you may be wondering, " What can a landlord check during an inspection?" Essentially, with this type of inspection report, your landlord or property manager will look at the overall condition of the property for any concerns. This includes the plumbing, walls, floors, appliances, and other aspects of the home. What they aren't allowed to inspect is your personal belongings or your private communications.

What are special assessments on condos?

Special assessments on condos are an additional expense that condo owners pay on top of their monthly condo fees. Should the building's reserve fund be short, this money is used to pay for unexpected costs such as legal issues, repairs, or replacing parts of the condo’s common areas.

Protect your property with quality home insurance

Thinking of changing home insurance? At BrokerLink, we help homeowners, landlords, and renters find affordable insurance coverage. With access to some of Canada's top insurance policies, our brokers can customize your homeowner's coverage to meet your needs. Here's a closer look at what types of insurance our brokers can help with:

• Vacation property insurance
• Condo insurance
• Tenant insurance
• Home insurance

To work with BrokerLink, visit us at one of our many locations across Canada. If we're not in your neighbourhood, you can contact us over the phone or through email. And, if you're simply browsing for coverage, take advantage of our free online quote tool for a competitive home insurance quote that is ready within minutes!

Contact BrokerLink today

Ready to move into your new apartment? Download BrokerLink’s Apartment Checklist to make sure you don’t miss a thing—and protect your space with the right tenant or condo insurance. Get started with BrokerLink today for peace of mind, every step of the way!

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