In order to ensure seamless operating, effective block management necessitates regular maintenance and a thorough understanding of the property. Frequent site inspections are an essential component of effective block management.

An essential component of the property management procedure is inspections. There’s more to doing a comprehensive examination than merely periodically looking for problems. 

It includes keeping your premises modern and appealing to potential tenants, seeing to it that infrastructure needs are fixed, and making sure your homes are thoroughly cleaned before new occupants come in.

All of this makes sure your properties remain competitive when compared to similar properties and provide the greatest renting experience for your residents.

There are a total of 19044 property management companies in the United Kingdom, which means a lot of residential property tenants to look after!

In this guide we’ll explain the importance of site visits and detail a property management inspection checklist.

What are property manager site visits?

Site visits are crucial; to ensure the block is compliant with regulation and there are no health and safety issues. A block management company will regularly send representatives to ensure that all common areas, such as the grounds or leisure facilities, are in good working order.

A property manager will inspect the site for any maintenance concerns that require attention and create a report to record these items. They will also make sure that residents are contributing to the maintenance of the property and that routine contracted work is completed to a high standard.

Block property managers can use site visits to avoid costly repairs that may occur in the future by regularly inspecting the building and taking care of any property damage swiftly.

Why are block property site visits important?

Site visits are important for three main reasons:

  • Maintenance issues
  • Health & Safety
  • Communication

Maintenance

Block managers can find any maintenance concerns during site inspections and take appropriate action before they worsen and become more expensive later on. Perhaps a block manager discovers a minor pipe leak that, if corrected right away, would stop water damage to the building’s walls and ceilings. 

Peeling paint on the building’s façade may have been brought to attention during the site inspection. They could avoid structural damage from exposure to the building material, for example, if they swiftly fix this.

Never should a block manager depend on the residents to bring up problems. If repairs are neglected, they will grow larger and more problematic.

In order to keep the property in good condition and preserve its worth over time, maintenance is also necessary. A block manager can contribute to extending the life of building elements like the roof, plumbing and heating system with routine maintenance and repairs.

Health & Safety

Making sure the block conforms with health and safety regulations is a crucial part of the block manager’s job. This is to guarantee the block’s tenants’ safety. In addition to following fire safety procedures and doing a risk assessment for the common areas, the block manager is also required to conduct a working-at-height risk assessment for any contractors, such as window cleaners.

They must also perform utility inspections, which include safe water checks, gas safety inspections to guarantee that all gas appliances, fittings and flues are maintained, and electrical safety inspections in common spaces. Asbestos identification and other harmful material assessments fall under the purview of the block manager.

Communication with rental property tenants

During site inspections, the block manager might interact with the residents. After then, they can respond to any worries or inquiries they may have. Additionally, they can inform them of any planned maintenance or future repairs. 

Relationship building with the tenants is facilitated by site inspections. Developing a good relationship with residents is crucial because they will stay longer if they are content.

Your block property inspection checklist for 2023/24

Below is a checklist for property owners and block property managers when conducting a site visit:

Exterior

Starting with the block’s exterior is a great idea. This is crucial for the building’s safety as well as its aesthetic appeal. You should always make sure your property is in good condition and complies with the most recent codes because you never know when a problem can occur.

The following important outside property maintenance chores need to be on your block management to-do list for the coming year:

  • Inspect any common places, such as rubbish bins and fire safety spots, for any damage.
  • Check the outside lights and light fittings
  • Look for damage or cracks in the paint and walls.
  • Look for any damage or safety concerns on the roof.
  • Examine all additional external block features, such as windows, drains, and pipelines.

Plumbing

One important consideration with regard to block checks is plumbing. This will guarantee the smooth operation of all appliances and systems throughout the year. The following essential items should be on your to-do list:

  • Look for leaky toilets and taps.
  • Check for slow-draining drains, such as the bathroom sinks, shower/tub combo and kitchen sink.
  • Examine walls and ceilings for leaks, and look for debris or watermarks behind sinks.
  • Verify that every thermostat is operating correctly.
  • Confirm that the hot water system is operating properly.

Electrics

Finally, but just as importantly, you should be inspecting the block’s electricity. For the protection of your renters, clients, and self, this is essential. Your new year’s inspection checklist needs to contain the following electrical checks:

  • Inspect each light fixture.
  • Verify the proper operation of any electrical appliances.
  • Check that there is no damage to switches or outlets by inspecting the water heater and the fire alarms, making sure you have a current certificate for each.
  • Make sure that none of the property’s wires or cables are exposed.

Looking for expert block property management?

Preventive maintenance is the primary focus of top-notch property management services. Frequent inspections and maintenance checks will identify any issues that require fixing. Taking action now will help you avoid more costly issues down the road.

Our staff of highly skilled property managers offers a committed service to guarantee that your block is properly maintained and managed every day of the week. Additionally, RICS and ARMA regulate us, so you can be sure you’ll receive high-quality service.

If you’re looking for professional block management services, then look no further than Scanlans Property Management. 

Contact our block property management experts today to get started.

Property management site visit checklist FAQs

How do you do a site inspection?

Field visits and written checklists are part of the conventional process for performing site inspections. To speed up the procedure, property managers are now embracing digital tools. Site inspections frequently address a variety of subjects, such as fire safety and compliance with building codes.

What is involved in block management?

The administration of a residential estate or block of apartments is referred to as residential block management. The financial, legal and maintenance facets of managing the common areas and daily operations of that residential estate will fall within the scope of the block management company.