Can You Refuse An Apartment Inspection?

It is common for your property manager to inspect your apartment every 3 to 6 months. Rental property inspections are very stressful because you have to do a copious amount of cleaning and preparation to ensure the property is up to standard. Some may even wonder if they can refuse an apartment inspection altogether.

If you're asking yourself, "Can I refuse an apartment inspection," you probably feel uncomfortable letting a stranger into your home. As a renter, it's crucial to understand your rights and responsibilities to make informed decisions about inspections. 

Knowing where you stand lets you make informed decisions on permitting the inspection. This article answers the question, "Can you refuse an apartment inspection," and explains why your property manager would want to do an inspection.

Can I Refuse An Apartment Inspection?

In most cases, the answer to "Can you refuse an apartment inspection" is no. If you signed a lease agreement, there's probably a clause detailing how often the property manager will conduct routine inspections. These inspections are mandated by state regulations governing the maintenance of multiple dwellings.

Apartment inspection laws vary from state to state but generally require a property manager to notify residents 24 - 48 hours before the inspection. The same maintenance laws stipulate that upon the provision of reasonable notification, residents must give property managers access to the premises for inspection and maintenance.

Why Would My Landlord Want To Inspect The Apartment?

There are several reasons a property manager would want to inspect the condition of your apartment. Let's look at a few of them:

To Verify The Condition Of The Apartment

Property managers want to know the condition of your apartment before extending your lease or releasing your security deposit before you move out. When checking the state of the apartment, the property manager will look at the following:

• The yard and landscaping: Since landscaping is expensive, the property manager wants to know if you're taking care of it. They will check the grass and gardens for weeds and upkeep.
• The exterior of the building: The property manager is interested in ensuring the building is kept up to code and looks attractive from the outside. Some things they check in your apartment's exterior include the roof, gutters, downspouts, window wills, cracks on the driveway, and the foundation. The goal is to ensure you haven't deferred any maintenance that might affect the property's outlook and safety.
• The interior: Property managers want to ensure you're taking care of your apartment. They will check for leaks under your sink, peeling paint, roof leaks, drainage issues, smoke detectors, hidden pets, and mold.

To Check For Lease Violations

Your property manager will check if you're following all the apartment rules. Do you have a pet when you're not supposed to have one? Do you have extra people living in the apartment when you're only allowed a certain number? They may also check for any changes you've made to the apartment without their permission or written consent.

As Part Of Routine Maintenance

The law requires that property managers inspect your apartment regularly as part of their apartment maintenance duties. Ensuring the building and apartments remain in tip-top condition and meet all safety standards is paramount. 

During routine maintenance, the property manager may change your smoke detectors and filters, check the HVAC system and all its components, and do any other repairs or maintenance that may be needed.

To Maintain Positive Relationships With Residents

Inspections present great relationship-building opportunities for property managers. This is because it gives them a chance to meet with their residents and listen to any concerns they may have. It also allows the manager to understand how their residents live so that they can provide better service in the future.

Should My Landlord Give Me Notice Before An Inspection?

State laws govern a property manager's entry into rented premises. Usually, property managers are required to notify residents at least a day or two in advance before inspecting or entering rental units. However, there are some situations where the law grants property managers the right of entry without consent. These include:

• During emergencies where a condition poses a threat to the safety and health of other occupants or people living nearby the building.
• Where access has been denied but is necessary for the property to remain compliant with state fire, safety, and health codes.
• The property manager is given court orders from a judge to inspect for potentially illegal activities or renter violations of the lease agreement.

Make Apartment Inspections Hassle-Free With RentCheck

Apartment inspections are stressful, but RentCheck can make your upcoming inspection a breeze. This app is designed for the convenience of residents and property managers. 

With RentCheck’s resident-led inspections, residents can perform regular rental property inspections independently without needing a property manager to be present.

RentCheck also helps with record-keeping by documenting inspection results and storing them for future reference. It makes it easy for property managers to compare inspections and track repairs over time.

Sign up for free and start using RentCheck to take control of property inspection and have more peace of mind.