When you hand over the keys to your investment property, you're trusting someone else to protect what’s one of your biggest financial assets. Thorough, regular inspections are crucial for spotting the early warning signs that could save you thousands down the track.
A proper routine inspection is about treating your investment with the same level of scrutiny we'd apply to a pre-sale inspection.
What Should a Proper Inspection Actually Cover?
The best property inspections go well beyond checking if the lawn's been mowed and if there are unapproved pets or occupants. Here's what we look for during every single visit:
Structural Elements
- Foundation settling or movement
- Wall cracks (both internal and external)
- Ceiling stains or sagging
- Window and door frame alignment
- Balcony and deck stability
Water and Moisture
- Guttering condition and blockages
- Downpipe connections and drainage
- Bathroom and kitchen sealing
- Under-sink areas for leaks
- Roof condition and potential entry points
Pest and Termite Indicators
- Timber damage or hollow-sounding boards
- Visible mud tracks or termite trails
- Damaged skirting boards
- Pest droppings in cupboards or roof spaces
Electrical
- Safety switch functionality
- Smoke alarm placement (sometimes tenants remove!)
- Power point condition
Garden and External Areas
- Retaining wall stability
- Fence condition and boundary disputes
- Driveway cracks or movement
- External lighting and security features
The Deck That Could Have Cost Thousands
Recently, one of our routine inspections uncovered rot in what looked like a perfectly normal timber deck. The tenants mentioned it felt a bit "bouncy" when they walked on it, but didn't think much of it.
When we took a closer look underneath, we discovered that three of the main support posts were completely rotten through, so badly that you could push a screwdriver straight through them with minimal pressure. The deck was literally being held up by the remaining posts and some very stressed bearer timbers.
What started as a repair job (caught early) would have become a significant project and potential liability issues - if someone had been injured when it eventually gave way.
Prevention vs Repairs Cost
Catching problems early almost always costs less than waiting for them to become emergencies. A loose roof tile spotted during inspection might cost a nominal amount to fix. Left unchecked, it could lead to water damage worth thousands.
Why the Right Team Makes All the Difference
Property management isn't a solo sport. The best outcomes happen when you have experienced agents working with trusted tradespeople who understand investment properties.
Over three decades, we've built relationships with electricians, plumbers, builders, and pest control specialists who get it. They know the difference between "fix it properly" and "patch it up." They understand that an investment property needs solutions that will last, not quick fixes that'll cause problems down the track.
When our agents spot potential issues during inspections, they're not just documenting problems, they're connecting property owners with the right people to solve them efficiently and cost-effectively.
A thorough inspection isn't about finding fault with your tenants or your property. It's about protecting your investment and maintaining its value over time. Properties that receive regular, detailed inspections tend to:
- Retain their value better over the long term
- Experience fewer emergency repairs
- Have longer-lasting tenancies (tenants appreciate living in well-maintained homes)
- Generate fewer insurance claims
- Provide owners with peace of mind
Ticking boxes and snapping a few photos might seem efficient, but this type of inspection is doing you a disservice. Taking the time to look under the deck, check the seals around windows, and notice when something doesn't quite look right adds up when it comes to protecting your investment.
Getting the Inspection Standards You Deserve
If you're not confident your current property manager is providing the level of inspection detail your investment deserves, it might be time for a conversation. After all, you wouldn't accept a surface-level service in other areas of your financial life, so why accept it with your property?
The right property management team brings experience, attention to detail, and a network of trusted professionals to keep your investment in top condition. Because the best time to fix a problem is before it becomes expensive.
Contact Penrose Real Estate to discuss how our thorough inspection process can better protect your investment property.