10 Things to Look for During a Routine Inspection

Routine inspections are often a requirement under your landlord insurance policy. Regular inspections help protect your property, support any future insurance claims, and make sure tenants are looking after the home.

Here are 10 key things we check during a routine inspection:

1. Taps, Pipes and Water Pressure

Check under sinks, around taps, and in wet areas for leaks or drips. Inspect dishwashers, washing machine connections, and hot water cylinders if accessible. Poor water pressure could also point to plumbing issues. A small leak left unchecked can quickly cause major water damage and result in costly repairs.

2. Mould and Ventilation

Mould is a common issue in Christchurch rentals, especially during winter. If it keeps reappearing, look for the source. It could likely be poor ventilation, leaks, or faulty extractor fans. Document recurring issues and provide tenants with clear instructions for managing condensation and moisture to protect both the property and insurance compliance.

3. Lights and Power Points

Make sure all lights are safe and working. If wires are visible, there’s sparking, or the socket moves easily when touched, it could become a fire risk and should be fixed immediately by a licensed electrician. For hard-to-reach or fixed lights, you may need an electrician. Keep electrical safety certificates up to date to meet compliance.

4. Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms save lives and they’re also a legal requirement under the Healthy Homes Standards. It's best practice to record a video of the smoke alarms while you're testing them. Tenants are responsible for changing batteries (unless it’s a boarding house), but landlords must ensure smoke alarms are working at the beginning of each tenancy. For more information, please visit this link: https://www.tenancy.govt.nz/maintenance-and-inspections/smoke-alarms/

5. Exterior

Don't forget to inspect the exterior. Check conditions of exterior cladding, gutters, downpipes, fences and garage door. Christchurch weather can be tough on roofs and drains, so keeping these in good condition prevents flooding, leaks and damage to your property.

6. Paintwork

Check for any chipped, flaking, or damaged areas that could allow moisture to get in or worsen over time.

7. Carpets and Flooring

Check carpets for stains, wear, or damage. Inspect hard flooring for scratches, lifting, or signs of water damage.

8. Furnished Properties & Chattels

If your property is fully or partially furnished, check the condition of all chattels provided. They must be in good working order. Track warranties and depreciation so you know when repairs or replacements are due.

9. Walls

Look for dents and holes on walls. Normal wear and tear happens, but damage should be documented and repaired promptly.

10. Bathroom Fans and Drains

Extractor fans need to be working well to prevent mould. If there are blockages in showers, sinks, and toilets, get it fixed quickly as these can lead to overflows and water damage.

Why Good Records Matter

Routine inspections aren’t just about spotting issues, they’re also about keeping solid records. Take dated photos, keep inspection notes, and document any repairs or instructions given to tenants. This creates a clear history of how the property has been cared for, which is crucial if disputes arise.

A good system, regular checks, and clear communication with tenants will go a long way to protecting your investment.