landlord Checklist

Whether you’re a first-time landlord or a seasoned professional, the rental industry is constantly shifting and evolving.n If you are a new landlord, you need to learn all the legalities involved in leasing out a property. There are many things you need to keep track of, so it’s smart to follow a first-time landlord checklist.

  • You will want to buy Landlord’s Insurance to protect you and your property. A rental property policy will have many coverages so ensure you choose the ones pertinent to your situation

  • Ensure all appliances are in good working order and all electrical outlets are functional

    Walls, floors, and ceilings inspected for blemishes such as marks or scratches, repainting if necessary

    Doors and windows checked for proper operation

    Window coverings inspected for any needed repairs, cleaning, or replacement

    Light fixtures checked for proper operation and light bulbs

    Plumbing inspection to verify that there are no line clogs or minor leaks that could cause mold growth, and that the water heater or boiler is working correctly

    Heating and cooling system inspected for proper operation, including replacing air filters and pre-scheduling seasonal maintenance

    Stairs and hallways inspected for signs of damage, including stains or loose steps

    Smoke detectors and fire alarms verified for proper operation, with batteries replaced if needed

    Fire extinguishers should be fully charged and replaced if they have been used

    Appliances verified in proper working order, including stoves and burners, controls, range hood and ventilation, oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave, and garbage disposal

    Counters, drawers, cabinets, and closets checked for cleanliness and proper operation

    Showers, bathtubs, and toilets checked for cleanliness and condition, such as cracks or missing grout, well-functioning water drains, and knobs or controls

    Baseboards and mouldings checked for damage and cleanliness

    Carpets and floorings are professionally cleaned, with any tears or cracks repaired to help ensure the safety of the tenant

    Driveway and front walk to home inspected for chips or cracks, and any oil or grease stains removed

    Landscaping trimmed back, existing in-ground watering systems checked for breaks or leaks, and gutters cleaned to help prevent damage to the roof, exterior walls, or foundation of the home

    Patios, porches, decks, and balconies inspected for damage, cracks, or breakage

  • Have the unit professionally cleaned and consider adding a fresh coat of paint before taking pictures or showing

  • Collect all copies of keys and garage door openers from the previous tenant

    Rekey all door locks

    Verify all windows have security locks and screens

    Reprogram the security system (if applicable)

    Reprogram the garage door opener (if applicable)

Preparing the rental property

  • Once your tenants have moved in, you will not be allowed to enter without permission or prior notice. It’s important that you keep an eye on the state of the unit, so plan your visits in advance to avoid legal problems

  • As the property owner, general maintenance will be your responsibility. Keep track of general repairs that are likely to be needed throughout the year, and follow provincial guidelines regarding rental property safety, including fire drills and alarm tests

  • Inevitably, legal disputes will arise in some cases. Do your research and prepare for common landlord disputes. In doing so, you may avoid some of these disputes altogether

During the tenancy

  • Scheduling a day and time to conduct a move-out inspection. Identifying items that need to be repaired or replaced due to normal wear and tear, along with any excessive damage caused by the tenant.

  • Verifying the tenant’s new mailing address for the return of the security deposit or any mail they might receive after moving out.

    Ensuring that all keys and remote controls are returned by the tenant moving ou

  • Ensuring that all keys and remote controls are returned by the tenant moving out

After the tenancy