Inspection lists tend to be full of small, annoying items. None are hard. Together they take a weekend.
Inside
- Holes from picture hooks and TV brackets, filled and touched up
- Scuffs and marks on walls
- Door stops, handles and cupboard hinges
- Mouldy or cracked caulking
- Loose handles or fittings
Outside
- Lawn mowed and edges cut
- Garden beds weeded, hedges trimmed
- Gutters clear of leaves
- Clothesline and letterbox in working order
Get the agent's list
If your agent or the owner has sent a list, send it with your email. We'll go through it and tell you what's doable in one visit. Anything that's licensed work, such as electrical or plumbing work, needs a licensed tradie and we'll say so.
Who pays
That's between tenant and owner or agent, and it depends on your lease. Check the lease or ask your agent before booking, and for any disputes, use official NSW tenancy information rather than guessing.
Ring 02 6626 3819, or see handyman repairs and the pre-sale checklist, which covers many of the same jobs.
Routine inspection or end of lease?
They aren't the same thing. A routine inspection checks that the place is being looked after during the tenancy. In NSW the agent or landlord must give written notice and there's a limit on how often they can do them, so check Fair Trading NSW for the current rules. An end-of-lease inspection compares the property with the condition report from when you moved in. Photos you took on day one are valuable.
Who looks after the garden?
It's usually set out in the tenancy agreement. Commonly, tenants handle routine mowing, weeding and watering, while larger jobs such as tree work and big prunes sit with the owner. If you're not sure, read the agreement or ask the agent before you book anything.
Before and after photos
Take clear photos of anything you've fixed, cleaned or tidied. Keep them with your lease paperwork. If there's a dispute later, dated photos help.
Tenants vs owners
Tenants usually do the cleaning, lawn and minor patching. Owners or agents often handle bigger repairs. Whoever is booking, send the agent's list so we can work from it.
Timing
Book at least a week before the inspection if you can. Paint and sealant need time to dry and cure, and the earlier the list is in, the easier it is to fit.
Get a quote
Email the list and your suburb, with photos of anything that's unclear. See how quotes work.
Related: Anchoring tall furniture and TVs, Holiday home maintenance.