If you are a new or seasoned landlord here in the Waco, TX area, and have ever underestimated the value of the move-in and move-out walk-through process for your rental property, you are not alone. Countless landlords choose to skip out on one or the other, failing to realize just how important each individual process is in its own right. In other words, choosing to forgo either could cost you considerably.
Please know that walk-through inspections are not only designed to protect you as the landlord but to also protect your tenant. When properly executed, move-in and move-out walk-throughs mitigate disputes and the potential loss of funds. Thorough inspections prior to the start of a lease agreement measure any “present” damage, while inspections thereafter hold the appropriate party accountable for repairs.
In order to ensure that your move-in and move-out walk-throughs are successful, consider these 3 simple tips:
1.) Create a detailed checklist to use before each inspection, providing your tenant with a copy to use also.
List specific items and areas within each room (such as flooring, walls, stove, oven, cabinetry, light fixtures, shower, etc…) for review. This is just as important when tenants are moving in as well as when they are moving out so that you can determine what is normal wear and tear, and what is actual damage. Tenants should be provided with this list to refer to on their own as well so that they can make any minor repairs as needed.
2.) Take pictures and videos of the property during each walk-through, and then compare the footage.
This can help both the tenant and you the landlord recall what the property looked like when it was moved in to, and be used as an additional means of comparison during a move-out inspection. As stated before, normal wear and tear (such as chipped paint, some marks on the walls, and standard carpet wear) are not a concern, but larger items (such as pet damage, major alterations, and unreported mechanical failures) are.
3.) Know all applicable laws and regulations so that you are in full compliance.
According to Texas law, landlords cannot refuse to return a security deposit without a valid reason. Security deposits must be returned via mail to the address provided (less any damages) within 30 days. If there are any deductions, an itemized description should be included. Deductions cannot include items that have standard wear and tear, they can only include anything abnormal (as stated before).
With over 30 years of experience in property management, our team here at Real Property Management Talent knows how to navigate the tenant move-in and move-out walk-through process with ease. We are locally owned and operated, and dedicated to ensuring your investment continues to grow. Click here to see a full list of the services we provide.
If you are a landlord here in Waco, TX, you can learn more about the comprehensive services we offer by giving us a call today: 254-651-0576. We look forward to hearing from you!
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