How To Prepare For Inspections: Expectations, Checklist and everything inbetween.

Property inspections in Peterborough, Ontario are a regular part of managing rentals. Whether it’s an annual walkthrough, a tenant changeover, or a response to a city bylaw requirement, inspections are where small problems become big ones if you’re not ready.

Landlord preparation makes the difference between a smooth check and a compliance headache.

Here’s what you need to know — and do — to get your rental property inspection-ready.

1. Understand the Type of Inspection

Different inspections focus on different things. You need to know what’s being checked:

Routine inspections: You’re looking for damage, wear and tear, and maintenance issues.
City or bylaw inspections: Peterborough often checks for fire safety, occupancy limits, and property standards.
Insurance inspections: Inspectors verify conditions tied to your insurance policy.
Move-in/move-out inspections: Documentation of the property’s condition before and after a tenant’s lease.

Clarify the purpose before you prep.

2. Notify Your Tenants Properly

In Ontario, you must give 24 hours’ written notice before entering the unit for inspection.

The notice needs to include:

The reason for entry (e.g., inspection)
The date and time (within a reasonable window)

Tenants have rights. Skipping proper notice can delay the inspection or cause legal problems.

3. Focus on Key Compliance Areas

Inspectors and tenants will look at different things, but you must cover both bases for full rental property compliance:

Fire Safety

Check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms — replace batteries and test alarms.
Confirm that exits are clear and unblocked.
Make sure fire extinguishers are in place (especially in multi-unit properties).

Electrical Systems

Look for exposed wiring or broken outlets.
Test light switches and fixtures.
Confirm that breaker panels are accessible and labeled.

Plumbing

Check for leaks under sinks and around toilets.
Run all taps and flush toilets to confirm they’re working.
Clear any visible blockages or drainage issues.

Heating and Ventilation

Test the furnace and check for filter replacements.
Ensure vents and windows are unobstructed.
Confirm that all rental units have proper heating (minimum 20°C under Ontario law).

General Maintenance

Repair any broken windows, doors, or locks.
Replace burnt-out bulbs and fix loose handrails.
Patch and paint damaged walls if needed.

4. Address Exterior and Common Areas

Don’t focus only on the inside — outside matters too:

Clean gutters and inspect the roof for damage.
Confirm that walkways, driveways, and steps are clear and in good repair.
Check that outdoor lighting works for tenant safety.

City inspections often focus on the property’s curb appeal and safety.

5. Document Everything

Before the inspection:

Take clear, dated photos of each room.
Keep receipts for repairs or upgrades.
Have maintenance logs ready, especially for HVAC, pest control, and fire safety systems.

Good documentation protects you from false claims and shows inspectors you take rental property compliance seriously.

6. Communicate With Tenants

Let tenants know what to expect:

Tell them what areas will be inspected.
Encourage them to point out any issues.
Remind them to secure pets and valuables.

Happy tenants are less likely to make complaints during or after an inspection.

7. Common Red Flags Inspectors Look For

Based on common Peterborough standards and bylaws, watch out for:

Red Flag	Why It’s a Problem
Missing smoke/CO alarms	Fire code violation — fines and liability risk.
Peeling paint/mold	Health and safety issue.
Overcrowded units	Occupancy limit breach.
Broken locks/windows	Security issue.
Garbage buildup/exterior mess	Property standards bylaw violation.

8. Plan for Follow-Ups

If the inspection finds issues, fix them fast:

Prioritize health and safety problems.
Schedule repairs immediately and keep records.
Confirm with the inspector if a recheck is needed.

Delays in addressing problems can lead to fines or notices from the city.

9. Stay Consistent

Don’t wait for inspections to find problems. Set a regular inspection schedule:

Every six months for internal inspections.
Seasonal checks for exterior maintenance.
Annual fire safety inspections.

Staying ahead avoids surprises.

Landlord preparation is key to passing property inspections and keeping your rental business smooth. In Peterborough, with its specific rental bylaws and fire codes, a little work upfront saves you from bigger issues later. Focus on tenant communication, property maintenance, and compliance documentation, and you’ll handle inspections with minimal stress.

Preparing for Inspections: What Landlords Need to Know