If one thing is clear, it's that now is certainly a busy time for McAllen, TX landlords. The metro area's population is now one of the fastest-growing in the US, with demand for high-quality rentals steadily rising year after year.
As a landlord, you'll want to ensure your rental property is in good condition, without jeopardizing relations with your tenants.
This is where rental property inspections come in. Inspections are essential for maintaining the value of your asset and running a successful landlord operation. Here's what you need to know about rental property inspections in McAllen, TX.
How Often Should a Landlord Perform Rental Property Inspections?
There is no hard and fast rule around this, and there are no specific rental property inspection laws in Texas. However, there are rules around how and when you can visit a tenant's home, as we'll explore later.
First off, it's important to note that, if your property is registered with the McAllen Housing Authority, they will administer inspections on your behalf, on their own timetable. They will perform and pre and post-move inspection, and an annual inspection in between.
If your property is not Section 8 or registered with the Housing Authority, it is generally recommended that you conduct an inspection once every three to six months. This will help you to identify wear-and-tear that can be addressed.
If you suspect lease violations are taking place on your property or have good reason to suspect the law is being broken, you can conduct an emergency inspection when necessary.
What Does the Law Say?
As mentioned, there are no specific rental property inspection laws in McAllen, but rather laws around how and when you can enter an occupied property. Unlike in many other states, Texas does not require you to give a notice of inspection for any time period.
However, it is good practice to let a tenant know at least 24 hours in advance. Crucially, a Texas court ruled last year that a landlord cannot enter a property without express permission from a tenant.
You can only do so without the tenant's consent if the lease gives a specific reason for you to enter, and that reason is currently valid. Always ask your tenant before entering.
What Should You Look At?
Your rental property inspection checklist does not need to be a large document, as an inspection for an average-sized property should not take more than 30 minutes. Always scan all rooms to look for wear-and-tear or any maintenance issues that might need to be addressed.
You should prioritize certain issues during your search. Check the floors and carpets for any visible signs of damage. Always check under sinks, faucets, and toilets for leaks or water damage.
Do not forget to examine dark spaces and corners for evidence of pests. These are the essentials to cover during any inspection.
Get More Out Of Your Inspections
Rental property inspections are an essential part of being a professional, profitable landlord. However, it's not always easy to get it right.
At PMI RGV (Rio Grande Valley), we offer full-service real estate management that includes comprehensive, compliant inspections, plus immediate remediation of any issues. Reach out to our team to find out how we can help you get more out of your inspections.
