Vacancy Inspection Workflow

When to Inspect If a property has been listed as available for over 4 weeks, a Vacancy Inspection is required. Check MLS weekly to monitor which properties are available. If a property remains vacant, continue inspections every two weeks until it is leased.

Add the Assistant Property Manager to your calendar invite for every inspection so they're informed of the most recent visit.

Important note: Vacancy inspections should never take precedence over other important, time-sensitive FT tasks such as prechecks and move-in walkthroughs. Vacancy inspections should take place when the schedule allows. 

During the Inspection

Walk the full property inside and outside. Take photos, make a note, and address anything that could be affecting the property's leasability.

Cleanliness

• If there are dead bugs or light dirt, sweep or spot-clean on the spot
• If the floor or counter is extremely dirty, muddy, or heavily soiled, contact MC to submit a maintenance request for mopping
• Spray the exterior to eliminate wasp nests if present
• If present, pick up trash outside, so the property does not appear vacant

Odors

• If there is a noticeable fireplace smell, check whether the flue is open and close it if so
• If the smell persists, arrange to use the Ozone machine
• If there is a musty/mildew smell, locate the source and check for moisture, as this could indicate a leak

Functionality

• Check that all lights, doors, toilets, the garage, and fridge are working properly
• Check that the HVAC is working by turning the AC down temporarily until it kicks on, then return it to the original temperature 
• Check water pressure and temperature of all faucets and in the shower (especially when switching from the bath faucet to the showerhead, where applicable)

After the Inspection

Send the following to the Assistant Property Manager:

• All photos taken during the inspection
• Notes on the property's current condition
• Any items escalated to maintenance (include the MC request reference if applicable)
• Any on-the-spot issues that were handled during the visit