Why would anyone get a Pre-Lease inspection?

Many of our clients hired us because they had particular concerns about the unit they were about to sign a lease on. being locked in a lease, and "stuck" in the unit for the duration of the lease can be a double-edged sword - as if the unit is in good condition, your rent is guaranteed to be the price agreed to in the lease for the whole duration - - However if the unit is in bad condition, or contains potential health issues or hazards: The same lease can trap you in an environment you don't want to be living in... or cause unnecessary aggravation, cost, or health issues. 

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Many cities in towns in Massachusetts now require that all rental units be inspected regularly, have proper occupancy permits that allow the unit to be occupied, and have up to date rental certificates/permits. These are the first things you should always check when looking into leasing a unit. ANY unit which either lacks a current occupancy permit, or a valid and up-to-date rental certificates/permit CANNOT LEGALLY BE RENTED IN MASSACHUSETTS. This is important to realize before you sign any agreement or lease! 

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We perform inspections on the unit and/or common areas for the unit to determine if any currently visible defects, or obvious visual potential hazards exist. Kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, living areas, electrical outlets (and when accessible - electric panels), central heating and air conditioning, windows, egresses, doors, and more are all part of the inspection and evaluation. Additional testing is also available for a wide variety of other issues, including radon, radioactive/contaminated granite countertops, HVAC register air flow analysis, and much more. 

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Before you lock yourself into a lease for a long period of time and become "stuck" in a unit - be sure to consider having the unit inspected. It's better to know before you've signed the lease then afterwards!

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Below are some examples of Hazards and Defects found in units we've inspected: