Details to Note at an Inspection

An inspection should happen when the premises are empty of furniture. You can agree with your landlord that it will be alright if there is furniture in the premises - but this is something you must both agree upon and it must be noted in the inspection report. The problem with having furniture present is that it can hide damage. For this reason, you may want to ask your landlord to do the first inspection with you on the first day you move in, or even before your tenancy begins, before you have moved your furniture in.

The inspection report can include details of any damage or deficiencies in the property. For example, broken appliances, dirty carpets, dirty walls. Be sure to check in hidden places, such as inside an oven or fridge for things like broken racks or drawers. The report can also include photos or videos. If there is discussion as to who is going to be responsible for repairs, this should be noted on the move-in inspection report.

May 2005