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If you own a home or rental in Melbourne, keeping up with regular inspections is a must, no matter if you live there, rent it out, or manage it. It might not sound like the most exciting part of owning property, but trust us, it’s one of the smartest things you can do to keep everything running smoothly.
Here’s a laid-back guide on why regular property checks are so important, what to look out for, how often to do them, and how they help you stay on top of things without too much stress.
Why Bother with Inspections?
Melbourne’s property market is always moving—prices go up and down, new places pop up, and older ones wear out. If you want your property to stay in good nick (and maybe even go up in value), you need to keep an eye on it. Regular property inspections let you catch small issues before they turn into big, expensive headaches.
What’s the Big Deal About Regular Checks?
1. You Catch Problems Early
Leaky taps, dodgy wiring, cracks in the walls—these things start small, but if you ignore them, they can turn into pricey fixes. Doing regular checks means you’ll catch stuff early and sort it before it blows out your budget.
2. Make Sure Tenants Are Doing the Right Thing
If you’re renting the place out, inspections help you make sure the tenants are sticking to their agreement—no extra people living there, no pets they didn’t ask about, and no damage being done. It’s not about spying—it’s just making sure everyone’s on the same page.
3. Keep the Property in Top Shape
A place that’s looked after properly is worth more in the long run. Whether you want to sell one day or just keep things neat, regular inspections help you stay on top of maintenance so your place stays looking good and working well.
4. Happy Tenants, Fewer Dramas
Checking in now and then shows tenants you actually care about the property and their comfort. It builds trust and means they’re more likely to stay longer and treat the place with respect.
5. Stay On the Right Side of the Rules
There are rules around renting and property in Victoria. Doing inspections regularly (and giving proper notice) keeps things fair and square. Plus, if something ever goes pear-shaped, you’ve got proof you were doing your job.
6. Insurance Might Rely on It
Some insurance policies expect you to keep an eye on the place. If something goes wrong and you haven’t done your checks, the insurance company might not pay out. Keeping records from inspections can help avoid that.
What Should You Look At?
You don’t have to be a tradie to do a decent inspection. Just take your time, be thorough, and keep notes (photos help too). Here’s a simple list of what to check:
Outside:
- Roof and gutters—any damage or blockages?
- Paths and fences—safe and solid?
- Garden or yard—tidy and looked after?
- Paint or exterior walls—any peeling or cracks?
Inside:
- Walls and floors—any marks, holes, or water damage?
- Windows and doors—do they open and close properly?
- Light switches and power points—are they working?
- Smoke alarms—are they working and up to date?
- Air con and heaters—do they work properly?
- Taps, toilets, sinks—any leaks or low water pressure?
- Any signs of mould or pests?
Also check that the place is generally clean and nothing seems dodgy or unsafe. If the tenant mentions something, listen up—better to fix it now than cop a complaint later.
Read More: Things Building Inspections Cover and Don’t Cover
How Often Should You Do It?
In Victoria, landlords can do a routine property inspection once every 6 months, and you have to give your tenant at least 7 days’ written notice before showing up.
Here’s a common inspection timeline:
- 3 months after move-in: Just a quick check to see how everything’s going.
- Every 6 months after that: A solid once-over to spot any wear and tear or issues.
- End of lease: Make sure the place is in decent shape before they move out.
Just make sure you stick to the rules—turning up unannounced is a big no-no.
Read More: How Long Does a Building and Pest Inspection Take
Use a Bit of Tech to Make It Easier
There are apps and tools out there now that make inspections way easier. You can take photos, tick off checklists, and even send reports straight to your tenant or agent. It saves you time and helps you keep proper records without stacks of paperwork.
Common Roadblocks (and How to Handle Them)
1. Tenants Don’t Want It
Some tenants might not love the idea of inspections. Be clear that it’s part of the deal, give them proper notice, and be polite and professional when you visit. A good attitude goes a long way.
2. Too Busy to Do It
If you’re flat out with work or live far away, consider hiring a property manager or an inspection service. They’ll handle everything and send you updates, so you can relax knowing your place is in good hands.
3. You Forget to Keep Records
Each time you inspect the property, take notes or photos and store them safely. If something goes wrong later, you’ll be glad to have a clear record. It’s also a good idea to request a dilapidation report during each inspection.
Ask a Pro: When to Call in the Experts
Sometimes, a quick walkthrough isn’t enough—especially if you spot something that looks serious or just feels off. That’s when it’s smart to bring in the pros.
Building Inspections
Got cracks in the wall? Sinking floors? Weird smells? It might be more than just cosmetic. A Melbourne building inspector can check for structural issues, moisture damage, dodgy wiring, or hidden pests—things you definitely don’t want to miss. It’s especially handy if you’re buying, selling, or haven’t inspected the place properly in a while.
Property Managers & Inspection Services
Don’t have time to do it yourself or live too far away? You can hire a property manager or inspection service to handle it all for you. They’ll know what to look for, keep proper records, and make the whole process a breeze.
Pest Inspections
Melbourne’s no stranger to termites and creepy crawlies. If you see droppings, wood dust, or damaged timber, get a pest inspector in before it spreads.
Final Thoughts
Regular property inspections might feel like a chore, but they’re seriously worth it. They help you avoid nasty surprises, keep your tenants happy, and protect the value of your property. Whether you’re a first-time landlord or have a few rentals under your belt, staying on top of inspections is just part of doing the job right.
So grab a checklist, book in those inspections, and take a bit of pride in your property—it’ll pay off in the long run.
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