The Residential Tenancy Act requires landlords and tenants to complete a condition inspection report on or before the day the tenancy begins.  Failure to comply with this law will affect either party’s legal right to any security deposit.  The landlord must offer the tenant 2 separate opportunities to complete the inspection report.  If the tenant (or his agent) does not make themselves available at either of these times, then the tenant forfeits the right to any security deposit.  If the landlord does not offer the tenant two separate times to inspect the rental unit, then the landlord forfeits any claim to the security deposit.

ITEMS THAT THE INSPECTION REPORT MUST CONTAIN

·       Full legal names of landlord and tenant, date of inspection, and date of the start of tenancy

·       The condition of each room, including the basement, and any exterior areas included with the rental unit

·       The condition of any appliances, floor and window coverings (if applicable), furniture (if applicable), and mechanical systems

·       Any items that need to be replaced or repaired

·       Space for any comments on items

·       Form must be signed and dated by both tenant and landlord

ITEMS TO LOOK FOR DURING THE INSPECTION

     The inspection report is the only chance that the tenant has to identify items in the rental unit that are deficient or to note their condition.  Any damage that is not noted on the initial inspection report will be assumed to be caused during the tenancy agreement, and deducted from the security deposit.  Make sure that you do a thorough inspection of the entire unit and note all deficiencies in the unit before you sign the inspection report.  Look for broken glass, chipped appliances or fixtures, stains on carpets and window coverings, and any wall damage.  It is a good idea to take pictures of the unit as you walk through the unit. If you are not comfortable with this process, you can obtain a reputable property management firm to walk through the unit with you for your protection.