Tenants may send a representative to complete the move-in inspection if they’re unable to make the appointment. If this is the case, the tenant may not be able to dispute damages at the end of the tenancy since they weren’t present to inspect the property themselves. If this still fails, the landlord may perform the inspection on their own and provide their tenant with a copy of the completed and signed inspection report. If a mutually agreeable time can’t be reached, landlords must give a written offer suggesting a date and time.
The initial move-in inspection is typically conducted at the time of moving in, at a time that works for both parties. Schedule the inspection – Landlords are responsible for arranging the inspection and notifying the tenant accordingly.Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the inspection process is performed: The unit itself should be empty and free of all furniture, and in an appropriate state of cleanliness so that individual items on the condition report are clearly visible and in good repair. Move-in inspections should always be performed prior to the new tenant moving in, and after the previous tenant has vacated the property. The inspection process is performed differently at move-in and move-out, so let’s quickly break down what each process will look like for Canadian landlords. This form must also contain key information like the property’s address, the landlord’s contact information, names and signatures from both parties, and the date the inspection was performed, among other things. Generally, landlords will use a rental inspection checklist that contains space for an assessment of the condition of each item at move-in and move-out. Landlords performing a walk-through inspection of their rental unit must follow a set of protocols that differs slightly from province to province.
How to do a walk-through inspection using a rental inspection checklist > Recommended Reading: The Complete List of Landlord and Tenant Responsibilities Generally, landlords must provide 24-hours notice before any inspection. In most provinces, landlords are permitted to enter the unit once per month for the purpose of inspecting the unit, with proper notice given to the tenant prior to entry. In other provinces such as Quebec, rules are less clear – but we’d recommend performing both a move-in and move-out inspection, as a minimum.Īdditionally, some landlords may wish to schedule periodic checks throughout the course of the tenancy to ensure that everything is well maintained. In provinces like Alberta and B.C., these inspections are required by law, and come with additional stipulations governing how and when landlords are to perform these walk-throughs. The purpose of these inspections is essentially to gauge the condition of the property and various items within at the beginning and end of a tenancy, in order to determine whether or not repairs or cleaning are needed. When to do a rental walk-through inspectionĪt a minimum, most landlords will perform a walkthrough inspection of their rental property prior to the tenant moving in, and at the end of the tenancy as they’re moving out. Use this free walkthrough checklist during move-in and move-out to assess your unit’s condition. Thorough inspection of your rental property is needed to avoid disputes over potential damages. Download your free rental inspection checklist