A Comprehensive Property Inspection Checklist for Real Estate Agents

Buying a home involves several vital steps, and one that has a significant impact on decision-making is determining the property’s current condition. As a real estate agent, it’s important to understand the process to ensure that your clients are happy and satisfied with their purchase. Whether they’re doing it to acquire a primary residence or for short-term rental investing, a thorough check is a must.

In this article, Icons of Real Estate provides you with a property inspection checklist to empower you in guiding your clients through this critical phase of the home-buying process.

Property Management Inspection Checklist for Agents

This comprehensive property management inspection checklist encompasses all the essential elements you need in facilitating inspections.

HVAC

• Adjust the thermostat settings to different levels to test its functionality. This ensures that the system responds appropriately to changes in temperature.
• Inspect the vents and radiator for proper airflow and heat distribution. Blocked or obstructed vents can lead to uneven heating or cooling within the property.
• Allow the heating function to run and shut off automatically. It should reach the set temperature and shut off automatically once it’s achieved.
• Allow the air-conditioning function to run and shut off automatically. Similar to the heating function, the AC should effectively cool the space and shut off automatically once the desired temperature is reached.
• Locate the cold air return vents and ensure they’re strategically placed for proper air circulation.

Electrical System

• Test all switches and fixtures by turning them on and off. This ensures that electrical components are operational and properly connected.
• Check the functionality of the outlets by plugging in a radio or lamp to confirm that they’re receiving power. This also allows you to determine hidden electrical issues.
• Ensure that the doorbell operates correctly by testing it.
• Inspect if heavy-duty electrical lines are installed where necessary, especially in areas requiring high power consumption. This helps prevent circuit overloads and ensures the safety and efficiency of electrical systems.

Plumbing

• Run all faucets, both hot and cold. Check each one in the kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry room. Observe water pressure and note any inconsistencies.
• Let the water run for several minutes at each faucet. This helps identify potential issues with water pressure or restricted flow.
• Inspect sink and tub drains. Fill each sink and bathtub with water to a reasonable level and then open the drain to observe the rate at which it flows down. Slow drainage or any standing water indicates clogs.
• Check for hidden leaks. Pay attention to areas under the sinks, behind appliances, and in the basement for signs of water damage or mold growth.

Doors

• Open and close all doors, including closet doors.  Ensure they swing freely without scraping or catching on the frame or floor.
• Check the security of the latches. Once a door is closed, test the latch mechanism to confirm it securely engages the strike plate. Jiggle the handle slightly to see if it holds firmly.
• Open each door fully and check if the stopper prevents the door from hitting the wall with excessive force.
• Test all locks with their designated keys. Ensure they turn smoothly to lock and unlock the door. If there are any keypad or combination locks, verify they function correctly as well.
• Detect drafts. Using a flashlight or your hand along the bottom edge of the door, check for noticeable gaps between the door and the threshold. Significant gaps can allow drafts and impact energy efficiency.

Windows

• Thoroughly examine all glass surfaces of windows for any signs of damage, such as breaks or cracks. This ensures that windows provide proper insulation and security.
• Test each window by opening and closing it.
• Detect air leaks around windows by holding a lit match or lighter near the edges. Any flickering of the flame indicates leakage.
• Inspect window screens to ensure they’re intact and free from tears or holes.
• Examine the hardware, locks, and hinges of windows to ensure they’re secure and functioning properly.

Living Room

• Inspect the flooring for any signs of damage, such as scratches, stains, or uneven surfaces.
• Assess the walls and ceilings for cracks, water stains, or any other structural issues.
• Turn on and off all light fixtures to ensure they’re functioning properly.
• Test all electrical outlets to confirm they’re working and properly grounded.
• Evaluate the overall condition of the living room, including the furniture and appliances that come with the purchase.

Kitchen

• Thoroughly examine the cabinet fixtures and finishes to detect any signs of damage or wear.
• Conduct a detailed inspection of countertops to identify any cracks or scratches that may compromise their durability or aesthetic appeal.
• Assess the condition of the cabinet shelves and hinges to ensure they’re still intact and properly aligned.
• Test the functionality of the drawers to ensure they still open and close smoothly.
• Check the condition of the kitchen appliances and see if they still function optimally.

Bathrooms

• Allow the showers and tub fixtures to run and observe the water flow and temperature. Consistency is key here, as uneven or weak flow may indicate underlying plumbing issues.
• Check for proper drainage. A well-functioning drainage system will ensure that water is efficiently drained from the bathroom and maintain a clean and dry environment.
• Inspect the basins for any chips or cracks, as these can affect the surface’s overall integrity.
• Flush toilets.  A strong flush is indicative of a well-maintained plumbing system.

Bedrooms

• Inspect flooring and carpeting for any signs of wear, stains, or damage.
• Check the walls and ceilings for cracks, stains, or other imperfections that may require attention.
• Test the functionality of the light fixtures and switches to provide adequate lighting and convenience.
• Ensure all electrical outlets are operational and properly grounded for safety.

Outdoor Spaces (Porches, Decks, Etc.)

• Examine siding or brick exterior for any signs of damage that can affect structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
• Assess the gutters and downspouts for proper drainage to prevent water damage and foundation issues.
• Look for cracks or uneven surfaces on sidewalks and floors.
• Test the stability of all railings to provide safety and support for future occupants.
• Inspect outdoor structures for loose or exposed nails and screws that pose potential safety hazards.
• Confirm the overall structural integrity of the porch and deck to ensure they can safely support weight and withstand outdoor elements.

Basement and Attic

• Check the basement and attic for any signs of moisture or mold growth.
• Examine the floors, walls, and ceilings closely for any indications of water damage, which could lead to mold growth and structural issues.
• Ensure that ventilation system components are clean and functioning effectively to maintain indoor air quality and prevent moisture build-up.
• Look for signs of pest infestation. Addressing these problems promptly will prevent further damage and maintain a healthy living environment.

Garage

• Test if the garage doors are functioning properly and check for any signs of damage or malfunction.
• In case the garage uses automatic doors, ask for the remote door openers and try them out.
• Inquire about any lock codes used by the owner.
• Inspect the garage floors for cracks and check for proper drainage.

Safety and Technology Features

• Ensure that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as other security systems, are installed and functioning properly to provide early warning in case of emergencies.
• Test the functionality of the intercom system, if present.

Whether you need a primary residence or rental property inspection checklist, this comprehensive guide equips you with the essential tools to conduct thorough inspections. You ensure that no detail goes unnoticed to provide an elaborate report to your clients.

Home Inspection Reporting and Recommendations

 Based on your property inspection checklist findings, you need to make a report and give some recommendations to your client. As their agent, it's your job to inform them about your opinion about the property, so they can proceed with the best decision about their purchase.

When making a home inspection report, there are essential details that you need to include.

Firstly, you should provide basic information about the property, such as its address, square footage, number of rooms, and construction year. Then, you need to clearly define the scope of the inspection. What areas and systems were addressed? This is to set a clear expectation for what was and wasn’t inspected.

Next are your observations and findings. Make sure to provide honest opinions for every area or system that was inspected. Be thorough in your descriptions and clear in illustrating your points. This way, your clients can fully understand the property’s condition and any potential issues that need addressing.

Finally, your recommendations. These may include suggesting repairs, maintenance tasks, or further assessments by specialists.     

Guidelines for Proper Home Inspection Etiquette

Whether you’re inspecting a residential or commercial property, there are best practices that inspectors, agents, and clients should follow to ensure a smooth process. Here are additional guidelines for you.

• Schedule your appointment in advance. In case you need to cancel or re-schedule it, make sure to contact and inform the owner.
• Always knock or ring the doorbell to announce yourself before entering a property.
• Be responsible for the people you allow to enter the property and keep them together.
• Unexpected situations can arise, such as the presence of pets, so be prepared to handle them appropriately.
• Always be polite and avoid making negative comments in the presence of the owner.
• Do not allow anyone in your group to eat, drink, smoke, or leave trash while inside the property.
• Ask permission if you need to use the telephone or bathroom during the inspection.
• Respect the owner’s instructions about taking photos or videos of the property’s interiors and exteriors.
• Inform the owner that you’re leaving after the inspection.
• Leave the property as it was when you arrived; do not change anything.
• Leave your business card.

In addition to your residential and commercial property inspection checklist, this set of guidelines serves as a framework for professionalism during inspections. By adhering to them, you ensure a positive experience for all parties involved and uphold the integrity of the entire home-buying process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Property Inspections

Wrapping Up

A property inspection checklist is an essential tool to navigate home inspections with precision. With it, you can systematically approach the process for the best results and ultimately facilitate successful transactions for your clients.

If you need more tips and information that you can use to build your career as an agent, take a few minutes to browse through our blog section.

You can also partner with us for personalized guidance and support. Icons of Real Estate is dedicated to helping agents like you grow their businesses and achieve success.