If you\u2019re managing residential or commercial properties, you\u2019ll undoubtedly be aware of the need to carry out regular inspections.<\/p>\n
Inspections should be completed so you can make sure that they are in a habitable state and that health and safety risks are minimised as far as possible. However, not only do they help protect the safety of the property and its inhabitants, in some cases they are necessitated by law.<\/p>\n
Inspections ensure you are aware of internal and external property conditions at all times; they highlight the need for maintenance work; inspections give tenants an opportunity to alert the property owner to any issues; and they maintain tenant safety by avoiding any unnecessary costs\/complaints. In some cases, though not all, certain inspections are a prerequisite of insurance policies, too.<\/p>\n
So, if you\u2019re looking for a starting point for your property inspections, or you\u2019re unsure what needs to be included in an inspection checklist, here are a few pointers.<\/p>\n
There are a range of different inspection types, each fulfilling a crucial role in maintaining the safety of a building. Whether it\u2019s a streamline home inspection<\/a>, fire door inspection, a cleaning checklist, or maintenance checklists, there are a lot of points to consider to ensure you remain compliant.<\/p>\n This is only general guidance, with a selection of key areas being listed, and as such these checklists are not comprehensive. For detailed, fully compliant inspection checklists and inspection templates, download the Property Inspect app<\/a><\/u>.<\/p>\n A home inspection involves a general or in-depth assessment of the condition and safety of a property. Property elements such as the heating, plumbing, and electrics should be checked by a qualified professional. Home inspections also typically identify damage caused by water, infestation and any other issues.<\/p>\n These elements might be included in a checklist for house inspection:<\/p>\n \u2611 Steps\/stairs The findings of the property inspection should be set out within a report, highlighting any material defects and cosmetic issues that have been identified. This may indicate the need for repairs and further inspections before the property is deemed suitable condition for renting or sale.<\/p>\n While fire doors may be assessed as part of the general property inspection, it will also be necessary to arrange subsequent surveys. Such surveys should be carried out at least every six months and more regularly for busy buildings.<\/p>\n Again, they should be assigned to qualified inspectors (ideally those who have completed the FDIS<\/a><\/u> diploma), who will identify any measures necessary to prevent the spread of fire. Requirements of legislation such as the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 should be met.<\/p>\n Fire door inspections should include the checking of:<\/p>\n \u2611 Gaps and seals (ensuring the correct size of gaps between the door and frame and the presence\/quality of intumescent seals) Once more the inspection results should be recorded, specifying any remedial actions to be taken for the safety of tenants and visitors.<\/p>\n Thorough cleaning inspections will be essential, particularly in light of increased health and safety awareness following the pandemic. A cleaning inspection might highlight the following:<\/p>\n \u2611 Sweep, mop, or vacuum floors As cleaning can differ depending on the needs of the business or property, they can normally be quite in-depth. In a hospitality setting, for example, if one thing is missed it can spell disaster.<\/p>\n That\u2019s why many modern property managers use software to help them track and manage all the component parts of running a property, including cleaning inspection software<\/a><\/u>.<\/p>\n Apps typically include a variety of templates for domestic and commercial use, enabling you to maintain full compliance in the recording of identified hazards and remedial actions.<\/p>\n Maintenance inspections are another key part of property management. Ensuring that the property is in a sound structural state and identifying the need for routine repairs should not be overlooked at any point.<\/p>\n Maintenance inspections also provide the opportunity to ensure that building occupants are fulfilling their obligations. While a visual check will be sufficient in many instances, it might be necessary to call on expert support for the inspection of electronics and any other items where there could be a health and safety risk.<\/p>\n A maintenance inspection may include the checking of:<\/p>\n \u2611 Smoke alarms and Co2 detectors (ensuring that they are in good working order, with fresh batteries fitted)Home inspection checklist<\/h3>\n
\n\u2611 Pathways
\n\u2611 Drains
\n\u2611 Gutters
\n\u2611 Brickwork
\n\u2611 Windows
\n\u2611 Worktops
\n\u2611 Sinks
\n\u2611 Sockets
\n\u2611 Appliances (washing machine, fridge etc.)
\n\u2611 Furniture (beds, chairs etc.)
\n\u2611 Ceilings
\n\u2611 Radiators<\/p>\nFire door inspection checklist<\/h3>\n
\n\u2611 Hinges and ironmongery (ensuring suitable fitting, quality, and operation)
\n\u2611 Fire door signage (with warnings being clearly displayed)
\n\u2611 Door and door frame (ensuring suitable condition and fitting in accordance with the manufacturer\u2019s instructions)
\n\u2611 Door closers (ensuring suitable condition and operation from any position)
\n\u2611 Hold open devices (checking that such devices allow for door closure when the alarm sounds).<\/p>\nCleaning checklist<\/h3>\n
\n\u2611 Wipe down worksurfaces, benchtops, and sinks
\n\u2611 Clean doors and windows
\n\u2611 Remove dust and cobwebs
\n\u2611 Clean any cooking appliances (ovens, microwaves etc.)
\n\u2611 Clean and disinfect toilets
\n\u2611 Clean any common areas
\n\u2611 Tidy and weed outdoor areas
\n\u2611 Remove oil and grease stains from driveways and concrete areas.<\/p>\nMaintenance checklist<\/h3>\n
\n\u2611 Utilities (ensuring the connectivity and working order of electricity, water and gas appliances, where relevant)
\n\u2611 Leaks and water damage (checking for any leaks, with pipes being replaced where necessary – monitors may also be fitted for early detection and prevention of water damage)
\n\u2611 Communal spaces (ensuring general cleanliness and repair of any furniture for safety)
\n\u2611 Bins and recycling facilities (cleaning and removing any unpleasant odours, as far as possible)
\n\u2611 Cosmetic defects (applying fresh paint and repairing any damages at the earliest opportunity).<\/p>\n