Condition inspections during tenancy

Landlords can inspect the condition of the rental property once per month during a tenancy. Landlords must follow the rules around accessing a rental unit and tenants must allow the landlord access to inspect the unit. 

On this page: 

• Condition inspections help with maintenance
• Landlords must give tenants proper notice
• Documenting repairs reduces conflict 
• Tenant role and responsibilities
• Tenant rights
• Landlord role and responsibilities
• Resources
• I need help

Condition inspections help with maintenance

Monthly condition inspections are a standard practice for many landlords. These inspections are often carried out to: 

• Identify potential damages
• Ensure that the lease agreement is being followed 
• Assess the overall state of the property 
• Inspect the unit before the tenant gets a pet 

Landlords must give tenants proper notice

Landlords must provide tenants with written notice. This notice must be provided at least 24 hours, but not more than 30 days, before entry. 

The written notice must state: 

• The date of entry 
• The time of entry (must be between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.)
• A reason for entry 

Learn more about landlord access to a rental unit. 

Documenting repairs reduces conflict 

If damage is discovered during a condition inspection, the landlord and tenant should document the damage and agree on the required repairs. Photographing the damage ensures that there is a clear record of the necessary repairs. 

• Learn more about repairs and maintenance during a tenancy 

Tenant role and responsibilities 

Reporting maintenance issues and repairs

Tenants are responsible for the basic upkeep of the unit and must inform the landlord when the rental property needs maintenance or repairs. 

• Learn more about requesting repairs

Preparing for a condition inspection

Tenants should review their tenancy agreement before a condition inspection to ensure they are following all the terms. Dedicating some time to tidy up and organize the rental unit can help the landlord to do a more thorough inspection. 

Documenting existing conditions 

Tenants should document the current condition of the rental unit using photographs or written descriptions. Attention should be paid to existing damage or maintenance issues that need to be addressed. 

Note any repairs or maintenance needs

Any repairs or concerns found by the tenant should be discussed with the landlord during the condition inspection. 

Tenant rights

Tenants can remain present during a condition inspection

Tenants are allowed to remain in the rental unit during a condition inspection. While tenants are not required to be in the unit if the landlord has provided proper notice, remaining present can help address any concerns quicker.  

Request a copy of the condition inspection report

Tenants should ask the landlord for a copy of the completed report after the condition inspection is finished. This can be helpful to have as a future reference or for any disputes. 

Follow up on repairs

If any repairs were identified during the condition inspection, the tenant should follow up with the landlord to ensure they are addressed properly. The landlord is responsible for any repairs in shared or common areas.  

• Learn more about paying for repairs and maintenance  

Landlord role and responsibilities

Restating the terms of the tenancy agreement

Before a condition inspection, landlords should remind tenants of the terms and conditions outlined in the tenancy agreement. Restating the terms ensures that both the landlord and tenant fully understand their responsibilities during the tenancy. 

Thorough documentation can help reduce conflict

Thoroughly recording the rental unit's condition during an inspection provides landlords with solid evidence and prevents future issues

Supporting insurance claims 

If any damage occurs during the tenancy, thorough documentation supports landlords in making accurate insurance claims. Insurers can rely on this evidence to process claims fairly and promptly. 

Supporting arbitration claims 

Should any disputes occur during the tenancy, landlords who have thorough documentation can present a stronger case. Detailed evidence helps serve as a strong foundation to support the landlord's position.  

Referencing past reports  

Landlords should reference any past inspection reports to verify the unit's previous condition. By looking at past reports, landlords can: 

• Spot any maintenance trends 
• Keep inspections consistent 
• Plan ahead to take better care of the property 
• Keep tenants informed

Inform tenants if someone else is conducting the inspection 

Landlords should inform their tenants if someone other than themselves will be conducting a condition inspection.

This ensures that tenants are aware of who will be conducting the inspection. This could be an authorized representative or a property manager. 

Resources ​

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