How often should a midterm inventory inspection be carried out?

How often should they actually happen?

Too often, and tenants may feel monitored. Too rarely, and problems go unnoticed. Finding the right balance is key. This page explains how often a midterm inventory inspection should be carried out, what influences frequency, and how inspections should link back to the original property inventory report.

The Purpose of a Midterm Inventory Inspection

A midterm inventory inspection exists to monitor condition during the tenancy. It checks how the property is being maintained and whether issues are developing. It is not designed to replace the property inventory report. Instead, it works alongside it, providing an additional reference point between check-in and check-out.

There Is No Single Legal Rule

There is no fixed legal requirement that dictates how often midterm inspections must occur. This can make landlords uncertain. In practice, frequency is guided by reasonableness, communication, and risk management rather than strict rules.

Typical Industry Practice

Most landlords carry out midterm inventory inspections every three to six months. This interval is widely regarded as reasonable. It allows enough time for patterns to emerge without being intrusive. For many standard residential tenancies, this frequency works well.

Factors That Influence Inspection Frequency

Not all properties are the same. Several factors influence how often a midterm inspection should be carried out.

Property Type and Condition

Older properties or those with known maintenance issues may require more frequent checks. New-build or recently refurbished properties may need fewer inspections.

Furnished vs Unfurnished

Furnished properties carry higher risk. More items. More wear points. More opportunity for damage. As a result, inspections are often more frequent.

Tenant History and Profile

Experienced, long-term tenants may require less frequent inspections. New tenancies or tenants with limited rental history may benefit from closer monitoring. This is about risk, not judgement.

Length of the Tenancy

Shorter tenancies may only require one midterm inspection. Longer tenancies often benefit from regular checks. Consistency matters more than volume.

Legal Access and Notice Requirements

Landlords must always respect access rules. Inspections should only take place with proper notice. This protects tenant privacy and maintains trust. Failure to follow access rules can undermine the value of the inspection.

How Midterm Inspections Support the Property Inventory Report

The property inventory report records the starting condition. Midterm inspections show how that condition is evolving. If damage begins to appear mid-tenancy, it can be documented. This reduces uncertainty at check-out. Without midterm records, landlords rely solely on start and end points.

Avoiding Over-Inspection

Over-inspection can be counterproductive. Tenants may feel uncomfortable or pressured. This can strain the relationship. Reasonable frequency and clear communication prevent this.

Documenting Midterm Inspections Properly

Midterm inspections should be documented. Notes should be clear and factual. Photographs may be included where relevant. These records should align with the structure of the property inventory report.

Adjusting Frequency Over Time

Inspection frequency does not need to be fixed.

It can change based on: - Property condition - Tenant behaviour - Maintenance history

Flexibility is part of good management.

Best Practice Summary

• Best practice includes:
• Inspecting every three to six months as a baseline
• Adjusting frequency based on risk
• Respecting access rules
• Linking inspections back to the property inventory report This approach balances oversight and respect.

Final Thoughts

How often a midterm inventory inspection should be carried out depends on context. There is no universal answer. What matters is that inspections are reasonable, documented, and connected to the property inventory report. When done correctly, midterm inspections protect the property and reduce problems later.