The Benefits of Regular Landlords Inspections

While landlords insurance gives a landlord peace of mind in an uncertain world, no one wants to claim on their property insurance unless a claim is deemed absolutely necessary. In many cases, a clear recognition of potential problems and prompt remedial actions can act to mitigate the need to make a claim.

This is where a schedule for regular landlord inspections can help to reduce the risk of insurance claims by identifying potential problems before they cause damage. For example, a landlord inspection might identify missing or damaged roof tiles or crumbling mortar on a chimney which could allow water to ingress the property. a leaky roof. Additionally, regular inspections can help to ensure that tenants are complying with the terms of their lease, which can help to reduce the risk of damage caused by tenant negligence.

Here are some of the ways that landlord inspections can help to reduce the risk of insurance claims:

Identify potential problems before they cause damage.

A landlord inspection can identify potential problems with your property, such as a leaky roof or a faulty electrical outlet. These problems can be fixed before they cause damage, which can help to prevent insurance claims.

Water damage is the leading cause of property insurance claims. There are many ways that water can find its way into a property. There may be underground water courses or burst water mains raising the water table and causing problems of rising damp. This may be evidenced by green algae becoming visible on external render or brickwork and waterlogged gardens.

Industry regulator Ofwat says water companies in England and Wales lost an average of 2,923.8m litres of water a day in 2021-22, that is 1tn litres via leaky pipes throughout the year. Many of these leakages are on private property and can go undiscovered for many years. The long-term effects of these leakages can cause considerable damage to the foundations and fabric of the property so early detection and swift action can save considerable costs further down the line.

Flat roofs are also a leading cause of water damage. Regular inspections will reveal any potential issues that need addressing. Puddles of water collecting on the roof, torn or damaged felt, and stains on the ceilings below are all matters which should be addressed sooner rather than later.

Faulty electrical installations are also a major cause of insurance claims. The inspection should include a check on the condition of switches, sockets, and light fittings. Deformed and discoloured switches and sockets would indicate loose or faulty wiring, as would flickering lights. This is also a good opportunity to see if the tenants themselves are not contributing to potential risks by the use of too many additional sockets which could overload the electrical circuits.

Of course, the landlord’s prime responsibility is to the health and safety of his tenants, but routine inspection and maintenance are also essential to the safety of the property as well.

Ensure that tenants are complying with the terms of their lease. 

A landlord inspection can help to ensure that tenants are complying with the terms of their lease, such as paying rent on time and not causing damage to the property. If tenants are found not to be complying with the terms of their lease, such as by smoking within the accommodation or growing cannabis in the loft, they may face being evicted. This would help to reduce the risk of damage caused by the tenant’s negligence.

Maintain a good relationship with your insurance company. 

A landlord inspection can also help to maintain a good relationship with your insurance company. By regularly inspecting your property and taking steps to prevent damage, you can show your insurance company that you are a responsible landlord. Such proactive property management activities can help to reduce the risk of your insurance company denying a claim.

Overall, landlord inspections can be a helpful way to reduce the risk of insurance claims. By identifying potential problems, ensuring that tenants are complying with the lease, and maintaining a good relationship with your insurance company