How Often Should You Inspect Your Rental Property? A Landlord’s Guide
Regular property inspections are essential for maintaining rental property value, ensuring tenant safety, and staying compliant with building code compliance and fire code compliance regulations. If you own rental properties in Sacramento County, you’re required to inspect them at least once per year under the Rental Housing Inspection Program (RHIP). But is once a year enough?
This guide covers when and how often to inspect rental properties, what to look for, and how property maintenance inspections can help you avoid costly repairs and legal issues.
Why Routine Property Inspections Matter
Failing to conduct regular inspections can lead to:
✔ Costly repairs due to unnoticed damage
✔ Code violations and fines for non-compliance
✔ Security risks from broken locks or unsafe doors
✔ Tenant disputes over property conditions
✔ Legal liabilities if an injury occurs due to neglected maintenance
A structured inspection schedule ensures your property stays safe, habitable, and in compliance with Sacramento County RHIP, fire codes, and building regulations.
How Often Should You Inspect Your Rental Property?
1. Annual Inspections (Required by Sacramento County RHIP)
🏡 Minimum Requirement: Once per year
📋 Purpose: Ensures compliance with Rental Housing Inspection Program (RHIP)
🚨 Focus Areas:
- Fire Code Compliance (smoke/CO detectors, fire extinguishers)
- Building Code Compliance (doors, locks, structural issues)
- Major Systems (plumbing, HVAC, electrical)
- Tenant Safety & Habitability
🔹 Why it Matters: Sacramento County requires annual inspections to confirm that rental properties remain safe and habitable. Neglecting this can result in fines or penalties.
2. Move-In & Move-Out Inspections
📅 When: At the start and end of a lease
📋 Purpose: Documents the condition of the property before and after a tenant’s occupancy
🔍 Focus Areas:
- Locks and security features
- Flooring, walls, and windows
- Appliances and plumbing fixtures
- Potential tenant-caused damage
🔹 Why it Matters: Protects landlords from security deposit disputes and ensures all damage is properly accounted for.
3. Seasonal Inspections (Every 6 Months)
📅 When: Twice a year (spring & fall)
📋 Purpose: Prevents major maintenance issues and prepares for weather changes
🔍 Focus Areas:
- Roof, gutters, and exterior paint (prevent leaks & dry rot)
- HVAC systems (A/C in spring, heating in fall)
- Locks & doors (check for wear and security issues)
- Leaks, mold, and plumbing (address small issues before they become big problems)
🔹 Why it Matters: Preventative maintenance reduces unexpected repairs and ensures the property is rent-ready year-round.
4. Drive-By Inspections (Every 3-4 Months)
🚗 When: Quarterly (every 3-4 months)
📋 Purpose: Quick exterior check to spot potential issues
🔍 Focus Areas:
- Unauthorized tenants or pets
- Property condition and maintenance issues
- Landscaping, trash buildup, or signs of neglect
🔹 Why it Matters: Helps landlords catch lease violations early and ensures the property is well-maintained.
Key Areas to Check During an Inspection
Security & Locks
🔐 Check all door and window locks for proper function
🚪 Ensure deadbolts, peepholes, and door closers are working
🛑 Replace locks if tenants move out for added security
Fire & Safety Compliance
🔥 Smoke & CO detectors should be functional and up-to-date
🧯 Fire extinguishers must be serviced annually
🚨 Ensure all exits and doors operate with one hand without excessive force
Plumbing & Water Damage
🚰 Inspect for leaks under sinks and around water heaters
🛠 Check for slow drains, running toilets, or water stains
⚠️ Look for mold growth—a major red flag for landlords
Electrical & HVAC Systems
💡 Test outlets, switches, and circuit breakers
❄️ Ensure HVAC units are serviced before summer and winter
🔦 Exterior lighting should be operational for tenant safety
General Property Maintenance
🏚️ Look for roof damage, siding issues, or dry rot
🔨 Check doors and windows for proper sealing
🌿 Inspect yard, gutters, and fencing for hazards
How to Conduct a Successful Rental Property Inspection
🔹 Give Proper Notice – Most states require at least 24-48 hours notice before entering an occupied unit.
🔹 Use a Checklist – Keep a standardized checklist for consistency.
🔹 Document Everything – Take photos and notes of any issues found.
🔹 Communicate with Tenants – Address concerns and discuss necessary repairs.
🔹 Follow Up – Schedule repairs promptly to maintain habitability.
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Investment with Regular Inspections
Rental property inspections are a proactive way to protect your real estate investment, avoid costly repairs, and stay in compliance with Sacramento County’s Rental Housing Inspection Program (RHIP).
Recommended Inspection Schedule:
✔ Annual RHIP Inspections – Required in Sacramento County
✔ Move-In & Move-Out Inspections – Protects against tenant damage
✔ Seasonal Inspections (Every 6 Months) – Preventative maintenance
✔ Drive-By Inspections (Every 3-4 Months) – Spot-check for lease violations
Staying consistent with inspections helps maintain tenant safety, property value, and compliance with fire and building codes.
Need Help with Rental Property Inspections & Maintenance?
At QuickTurn Maintenance, we specialize in property maintenance, handyman services, and rental property inspections to keep your investment safe and compliant. Whether you need a QuickFix for a lock issue or full building code compliance inspections, we’ve got you covered.
📞 Contact us today to schedule your rental property inspection!
