GPS Renting conducts multiple inspections throughout the lifecycle of a tenancy to protect the property’s condition and support smooth transitions between residents. These include pre-listing, move-in, periodic, and move-out inspections. Additional inspections are available upon request.
1. Pre-Listing Inspection #
Before a home is listed, a pre-listing inspection is scheduled and conducted. This inspection includes photographs and a checklist of over 40 key areas and items to establish the property’s baseline condition. These records are essential for comparison at move-out.
If the carpets have been professionally cleaned before listing, owners are encouraged to provide the receipt, as incoming residents will be asked to return the property in the same condition at the end of their lease.
If cleaning, carpet shampooing, or landscaping is needed to prepare the home for listing, GPS will notify the owner and arrange service as appropriate.
In some cases, the pre-listing inspection may be used to assess the property after a previous resident vacates. However, it’s important to note that the pre-listing inspection is not as comprehensive as a move-out inspection. Any repair work identified during this stage should be scheduled directly by the owner if there are time-sensitive security deposit return requirements, such as the 21-day timeline set by Washington State law.
2. Rekeying for Safety #
To help ensure safety and reduce liability, GPS requires all homes to be rekeyed between tenancies. This is handled as an owner expense initially, except in jurisdictions like Seattle where it is mandated by law. Afterward, it becomes a resident responsibility upon move-out. Rekeying typically includes up to six locks.
3. Move-In Inspection #
Just prior to move-in, a detailed inspection is completed to document the home’s condition, including over 100 photos. This process typically takes 1–2 hours and sets a clear reference point for future comparisons at move-out.
To help increase resident satisfaction, a brief touch-up cleaning is often included at this stage. Homes can become dusty or lightly soiled during showings, even after professional cleaning. A 30-minute cleaning and carpet vacuuming are completed during the move-in inspection to ensure the home feels fresh. If additional cleaning is required beyond this scope, GPS will inform the owner before proceeding.
4. Property Condition Inspection #
A property condition inspection is completed during the first lease term and periodically with each renewal. This helps assess how the property is being maintained, identify maintenance needs, and inform lease renewal decisions.
5. Move-Out Inspection #
A move-out inspection is completed the day after the lease ends (unless it falls on a weekend). Using the same template and photographic documentation from the move-in, GPS compares the property’s condition to determine any damages beyond normal wear and tear. Any such damage is documented and addressed as needed.
6. Additional Inspections #
If an owner requests additional inspections outside the standard cadence, these can be arranged. Additional inspections are available upon request.
