Inspections Policy
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to define Alliance Housing’s approach to undertaking property inspections.
Scope
This policy applies to all housing programs delivered by Alliance Housing.
Intent
The intent of this policy is to ensure that Alliance Housing undertakes property inspections consistent with the requirements of the Residential Tenancies Act, and in a manner that supports tenancy sustainability; considers the health, safety and wellbeing of tenants; and monitors and maintains the condition of the dwelling to an appropriate standard.
Policy
1. General Property Inspections
Alliance Housing will undertake a general property inspection on a regular basis. This will be a minimum of once per year, but may be more often subject to the length and performance of the tenancy. Prior to the inspection, Alliance Housing will notify the tenant in writing of the inspection consistent with the requirements of the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). Alliance Housing will arrange with the tenant for a suitable day and time for the inspection.
The purpose of the inspection will be:
1.1. Health and Safety
Assessing the critical health and safety aspects of the property for tenants including:
• The presence of Residual Current Devices and Smoke Alarms;
• Condition of any steps, stairs, damage, asbestos or other potential hazards or risks;
• Confirming that the tenant has no new or emerging medical or health issues that may make the property unsuitable or unsafe for their needs.
1.2. Tenancy Management
Consider and assess key tenancy management issues including:
• Assessing and discussing tenancy performance including property condition, rental arrears or tenancy complaints;
• Confirming current household arrangements including appropriateness of current rent, eligibility and size of property;
• Discussing any tenancy support or referral requirements.
1.3. Property Maintenance
Assessing the maintenance requirements to sustain the internal and external condition of dwelling to an appropriate standard including:
• Discussing any maintenance requests identified by the tenant;
• Assessing the requirement for any immediate maintenance works on the dwelling;
• Identification of any potential issues of concern about the maintenance integrity of the dwelling.
1.4. Asset Management
Considering the long term asset management requirements for the dwelling and the property including:
• Assessing current identified planned maintenance;
• Identification of, and proposed timing for, future planned maintenance requirements;
• Assessment and identification of specific structural, dwelling or site issues/opportunities requiring asset management investigations and/or decisions.
2. Follow Up Inspections or Client Contact Visits
To complement its comprehensive General Property Inspections, Alliance Housing may elect to conduct property visits or follow up inspections on its properties. These visits will be pre-arranged with the tenant via the issue of a written notice or advice in compliance with the Residential Tenancies Act.
The purpose of these visits may include:
• Follow up of outstanding or agreed issues arising from a previous inspection;
• To undertake further tenancy management or tenancy engagement and support activities;
• To investigate transfer requests or other tenancy issues;
• To follow up maintenance issues or asset management investigations;
• To investigate tenant feedback and complaints under theTenant Feedback, Complaints and Appeals Policy.
3. End of Tenancy Inspections
Where a tenant notifies Alliance Housing that they intend to vacate the property, we will arrange to complete an end of tenancy inspection. This will provide us the opportunity to inspect the property and identify any damage, cleaning or unauthorised changes to the property that need to be addressed before the tenant returns the keys. This will give the tenant the opportunity to avoid unwanted tenant liability costs that maybe deducted from their Security Bond.
Legislation and Compliance
This policy operates consistent with the requirements of the Residential Tenancies Act.
Implementation, Review and Amendments
This policy is applicable from the date of Board Approval. Alliance Housing will review this policy on a regular basis to ensure it remains up to date.
Document/Version Number: AH-INSPP/1
Amended By: Elysian Consultants
Amendment Narrative: New Policy Document
Board Approval Date: 25/01/2022
Status: Approved
