What are Property Inspections?

Property inspections are routine visits conducted by FlatHomes (or a nominated representative) to check the condition of your rented home. They are not designed to be intrusive, but rather a proactive measure to:

• Identify any necessary maintenance or repairs early, preventing small issues from becoming larger problems.
• Ensure the property is being looked after in accordance with your occupation contract.
• Check on the functionality of appliances, fixtures, and fittings.
• Address any concerns you might have about the property.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations (e.g., smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors).

These inspections are beneficial for both you, the contract holder, and the landlord, as they help preserve the property's value and ensure a safe living environment.

How Often Do Inspections Occur?

Typically, FlatHomes conducts property inspections 3 months after you move in & then every 6 months. However, the frequency may vary depending on the specific terms of your occupation contract or if there are particular concerns that require more frequent checks.

Notice Period for Inspections

You will always receive at least 24 hours' written notice via email before an inspection is carried out. This notice will confirm the date and time of the visit. We aim to provide as much notice as possible to minimise disruption to your day.

If the proposed time is genuinely inconvenient, please contact us as soon as possible to discuss rescheduling. We will do our best to accommodate reasonable requests.

How to Prepare for an Inspection

Preparing for an inspection helps ensure it runs smoothly and efficiently. Here are a few things you can do:

• Tidy Up: A general tidy-up of the property is appreciated. This allows us to easily access all areas and assess the property's condition accurately.
• Clear Access: Ensure that all areas, especially around appliances, heating systems, and windows, are easily accessible for inspection.
• Highlight Issues: If you have any maintenance concerns or issues you'd like to discuss, please report them via our maintenance portal beforehand. This ensures we can address them during the visit.
• Pets: If you have pets, please ensure they are secured or removed from the property for the duration of the inspection for their safety and the comfort of our team.

During the Inspection

An inspection typically takes between 10-30 minutes, depending on the size of the property. During the visit, our representative will:

• Walk through all rooms, checking for general condition and cleanliness.
• Inspect walls, floors, ceilings, and fixtures for any damage or wear and tear.
• Check for signs of damp, mould, or pest issues.
• Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors (if applicable).
• Note any maintenance issues that require attention.
• Take photographs for record-keeping purposes (these are for internal use only and are not shared publicly).

You are welcome to be present during the inspection. This is a good opportunity to raise any questions or concerns directly with our team.

After the Inspection

Following the inspection, we will:

• Provide feedback to the landlord on the property's condition.
• Arrange for any identified maintenance or repairs to be carried out. You will be notified of scheduled works and contractor visits.
• Contact you if there are any significant concerns that need to be discussed or addressed.

Our aim is to work collaboratively with you to ensure your home remains a safe and pleasant place to live.

Benefits for You, the Contract Holder

Regular inspections are ultimately for your benefit:

• Proactive Maintenance: Ensures issues are caught early, preventing minor problems from escalating.
• Safe Living Environment: Helps confirm that safety features like alarms are working correctly.
• Comfort & Quality: Contributes to the overall upkeep and quality of your home.
• Clear Communication: Provides a formal opportunity to raise concerns about the property.

If you have any questions about an upcoming inspection or any aspect of your tenancy, please do not hesitate to contact us.