56 Things To Inspect Before Renting A Condo!
Last updated
May 27, 2024
Inspecting a condominium or apartment unit before signing the tenancy agreement is perhaps the number one protection a tenant has.
After all, not every unit on the market is actually clean, safe, or fit to house the living.
To help, we’ve prepared an apartment inspection checklist that will turn even the most inexperienced tenant into eagle-eyed detectives.
By the end, you’ll have covered the whole unit, leaving no surface un-sniffed or button un-mashed.
Let’s begin.
Throughout the unit
- Walls and ceilings
- Check for cracks, structural holes, and evidence of water leaks.
- Inspect the paint job for consistency, and absence of chips.
- Look for small holes from pictures or other items.
- Electrical outlets and switches
- Test all outlets with a small device (e.g., phone charger).
- Check for burns or cracks around outlets and covers.
- Turn all wall switches on and off to ensure proper operation.
- Cable, internet, and phone jacks
- Ensure all outlets are in good condition and properly located.
- Smoke detectors
- Confirm detectors are present near bedrooms, front doors, and kitchens.
- Test each detector and verify the last battery change and device age.
- Lighting
- Turn on all lights and check for cracks or burn marks around fixtures.
- Request replacement of any hard-to-reach burnt-out bulbs.
- Air conditioning units
- Check that AC units run properly and silently.
- Verify no dead zones with no airflow anywhere in the unit.
- Curtains
- Inspect for damage, holes, and proper operation.
- Ensure blinds and curtains open and close smoothly.
- Windows and doors
- Check for leaks, chips, and proper insulation.
- Ensure all windows and doors lock securely and operate smoothly.
- Check window coverings, screens, and the condition of locks.
- Twist door knobs and test locks.
- Ensure closet and cupboard doors work and have all handles.
- Flooring
- Look for stains, holes, and pet or funny smells in carpets and floors.
- Check for loose carpeting or floorboards and exposed nails.
- Overall cleanliness
- Look for evidence of pests like roaches or rodents.
- Check furnished apartments for cleanliness and damage to furniture.
- Check that sink undersides and other hidden areas are clean.
- Cell phone reception
- Test cell phone reception in all areas of the apartment to ensure consistent coverage.
The throne (aka bathroom and toilet)
- Toilet
- Test for proper flushing and refilling, and check for cracks and odors.
- Ensure the toilet seat is sturdy.
- Sink
- Check water pressure and temperature response time.
- Look for leaks, drips, and cracks in the bowl and pipes.
- Ensure faucet fixtures are tight and sink stops work properly.
- Tub and shower
- Test water pressure and temperature.
- Check for mold, chips in tiles and grout
- Inspect for floor damage or mold.
- Ensure faucets and drains are working
- Check soap dishes are firmly attached.
- Storage
- Ensure under-sink areas are clean and dry.
- Check medicine cabinets and built-in shelves for sturdiness and cleanliness.
Bedrooms
- Windows
- Ensure proper insulation and secure locks.
- Closet
- Inspect floors and built-ins for damage and sturdiness.
- Look for rodent and insect droppings.
- Bed
- Check for bed bugs and overall condition of the bed frame and mattress.
- Ceiling fan
- Test all speeds and check for wobbling or rattling.
- Floors
- Check for damage or odours, especially in areas where previous beds were placed.
- Cell phone reception
- Test cell phone reception to ensure it’s consistent.
The kitchen
- Oven and stove
- Test burners and oven for proper heating and sealing.
- Ensure gas burners light easily and don’t emit gas smells after turning off.
- Sink
- Check water pressure, temperature, and garbage disposal functionality.
- Look for leaks, water damage, and odours.
- Refrigerator
- Inspect door seals, internal temperature, and functionality of lights and ice maker.
- Check for cracks and cleanliness of trays and shelves.
- Cabinets and counters
- Ensure smooth operation and no signs of pests.
- Look for water damage and cracks.
- Miscellaneous appliances
- Test built-in microwaves, dishwashers, and other appliances for proper operation.
- Check lighting and look for floor damage in hidden areas.
- Cell phone reception
- Test cell phone reception in the kitchen area.
Remember to document any damage
As a prospective tenant, documenting damage in a unit helps you two ways:
- It proves the property's condition before you move in, shielding you from liability
- Homeowners may not know the state of their units, giving them a chance to make things right for you
And for what it’s worth, it can be the first step towards building trust between you and the homeowner, which inevitably leads to a long and happy tenancy with zero rent hikes and the homeowner naming you in their will.
Or maybe not.
But at least no bed bugs.
