Why regular rental property inspections matter for landlords
- Our research shows 16%* of Australian landlords don’t have regular inspections, don’t know the arrangements, or inspect annually
- Regular inspections can show you how tenants are treating your property, and you can address any issues early
- A proactive approach to managing your rental property could help prevent costly damage, claims, and disputes
One of the most effective ways landlords can protect their investment is by conducting regular property inspections. This not only helps to catch issues early, it helps ensure your property is maintained to a standard that keeps your tenants safe – and you financially protected.
How often do landlords arrange rental inspections?
In a survey of 500 Australian landlords in April 2025, we asked how often their real estate agent inspected their rental properties. Overall, the results were promising.
- 38% had quarterly inspections
- 46% had inspections every six months
- 13% had annual inspections
- 3% didn’t have regular inspections – or didn’t know the arrangements
Related article: Landlord survey 2025 results
Prevent small problems from becoming big claims
Early intervention could help you avoid the need to make a claim. For example, a leaking tap might seem minor today, but left unchecked, it could lead to water damage, mould, or structural issues.
The same goes for damage from tenant’s pets, such as tearing up the carpet or digging holes in the yard. Regular inspections can help prevent seemingly small issues becoming big claims down the track.
Related article: Home vs Landlord insurance: what’s the difference?
Regular inspections help you to spot early warning signs and address them before they turn into major repair bills. It also gives tenants a chance to raise concerns they might not otherwise report.
This is particularly important for new tenants. For example, if a new tenant had 28 cats in your rental, the damage might already be done if you inspect in 12 months. That’s why it makes sense to arrange inspections more regularly.
“The sooner damage is identified, the less time, money and hassle it costs the landlord,” said Tony Waizer, Technical Manager, Householders, QBE
Why inspections are important for a change of lease
Between leases, you’ll need an inspection to see if anything needs to be deducted from the bond.
It’s also important to do a thorough inspection to see what needs to be rectified for your new tenant. Pay particular attention to things that could result in an injury, such as:
- a broken shower screen, uneven decking, or hazardous stairs
- carpets and rugs that are raised, fraying or have holes
- wiring issues that could result in electrocution or fires
- mould, which could make a home unliveable
- flexi hoses in kitchens and bathrooms, that could cause water damage.
It’s in your best interests to ensure your rental is safe and appealing to future tenants. If it’s well presented and maintained, tenants are more likely to look after it. And you could potentially attract a higher rental income.
Common issues that come up during inspections
Here are a few things landlords have discovered that are more common than you might think:
- Pet damage and pet hoarders
- Drug laboratories set up in the home
- Malicious damage by tenants
- Water leaks
- Accidental damage.
How to run effective inspections
If you’re conducting inspections yourself, here are a few things to consider.
- Give adequate notice: Always provide tenants with written notice, according to local laws.
- Be respectful and professional: If your tenant is home, aim for a friendly, cooperative tone. Your goal is to maintain the property, not to micromanage your tenants.
- Use a checklist: Have a rental inspection checklist covering structural elements, plumbing, electricals, cleanliness, pest activity, and any appliances or furniture provided.
- Document findings: Take notes and photos of any issues (with the tenant’s permission). Keep a record of the inspection date and any agreed actions.
- Follow up promptly: If maintenance is required, organise it quickly and advise the timeline with your tenants.
Consider encouraging tenant cooperation
Having tenants present during inspections can open up communication. If things are getting fixed, they’re likely to treat the property with respect.
Building trust helps to avoid disputes later – particularly when it’s time for tenants to move out and claim their bond back.
“Where there’s a great relationship between tenant and landlord, our observation is the property is respected and rent payments are prioritised,” said Waizer.
Protect the value of your investment
Your rental property is a long-term investment. Maintaining its condition will not only keep your tenants happy but may increase its value over time. Preventive care could save you thousands in ad hoc repairs and extend the life of your property.
For example, if roofs, guttering and downpipes aren’t regularly checked and free from debris, water could enter the home and cause damage that may otherwise have been avoided.
Based on Australian 2024 claims data, QBE’s highest volume of landlord insurance claims were for storm damage and water damage.
“Inspections and rectifying any issues can protect your investment, and help to support claims,” Waizer added.
Don’t let your property become damaged or unliveable
In our survey, landlords told us how soon financial problems would occur if their property was damaged, uninhabitable, or if rent payments stopped.
- 8% said they could last up to 2 weeks
- 30% said they could last 4-6 weeks
- 15% said they could last 8 weeks
- 13% said they could last 3 months
- 34% said they could last 6 months or more.
That’s why it’s important to have insurance that covers specific landlord needs, such as QBE Landlord Insurance.
Stay compliant with legal requirements
Landlords are legally required to maintain rental properties to a certain standard. Regular inspections help ensure your property meets legal health and safety standards, from smoke alarm functionality to structural integrity.
If you ever need to make an insurance claim, documentation from regular inspections can help demonstrate your due diligence.
Regular property inspections offer reassurance to both you and your tenants. They help ensure your property is safe and well-maintained, reducing the likelihood of damage, disputes, and unexpected costs.
For rental property cover that’s designed with landlords in mind, learn about QBE Landlord Insurance online or call us on 133 723.
* Statistics sourced from a survey of 500 Australian landlords QBE commissioned in April 2025.
