Property Inspections Challenges

Overcoming Common Challenges in Remote Property Inspections

March 08, 20255 min read

Remote property inspections have revolutionised the rental market, especially for people moving across Australia. Whether you’re in Sydney, Melbourne, or another city, the convenience of remote inspections is undeniable. However, like any process, there are challenges that renters may encounter during a remote or virtual property inspection. In this guide, we’ll outline the most common challenges and how to overcome them, ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience.

1. Navigating Legal Requirements

One of the biggest hurdles for renters looking to secure a property remotely is understanding the legal requirements. In Australia, it is a legal requirement that an individual or a representative physically attends the property inspection before submitting a rental application. This can be particularly challenging if you’re in Sydney and hoping to rent a property in Perth or other distant cities.

Solution: To overcome this challenge, renters can use proxy inspection services such as View Buddy Perth. These services ensure someone attends the inspection on your behalf, fulfils legal obligations, and provides a detailed report on the property, helping you move forward with your rental application.

2. Lack of In-Person Experience

Another significant challenge in remote property inspections is the absence of the renter at the physical location. Renting a property is a major decision, and not being able to walk through the space, test appliances, or assess the property’s atmosphere can lead to uncertainty.

Solution: A reliable remote inspection service can bridge this gap. High-quality services provide detailed video walkthroughs, clear images, and reports, allowing you to experience the property as closely as possible to being there in person. Additionally, it’s essential to work with services that allow you to ask specific questions or request specific areas of the property be examined.

3. Incomplete or Insufficient Inspection Reports

A common issue renters face is receiving an incomplete or insufficient inspection report. Without seeing every aspect of the property, from hidden corners to the state of appliances, renters might feel uncertain about the condition of their future home.

Solution: When using a remote inspection service like View Buddy, make sure to request a comprehensive report. This report should cover everything from the structural condition of the property to the state of the kitchen, bathroom, and other vital areas. Ideally, the service should offer same-day reports with high-quality photos and video footage to give you a detailed overview. The more detailed the report, the better your understanding of the property.

4. Communication Gaps with Agents

Sometimes, communication between the renter, the proxy inspector, and the property agent can lead to misunderstandings. If important details are not relayed effectively, renters might miss crucial information about the property, leading to dissatisfaction later on.

Solution: Clear communication is key. Ensure that your proxy inspector is qualified and can communicate with the property agent on your behalf. Services like View Buddy can help facilitate this by ensuring your details are shared with the property agent, enabling a smooth rental process. You should also make sure that the proxy inspector has all your queries and concerns listed before the inspection, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

5. Limited Ability to Assess the Neighbourhood

When conducting a remote property inspection, it's not just the property that matters; the surrounding neighbourhood is just as crucial. If you're moving to a new city like Perth from Melbourne, you’ll want to know about the local amenities, transportation links, safety, and more.

Solution: Although you won’t be there physically, you can still gather plenty of information about the area. Use online tools like Google Maps and Google Street View to explore the neighbourhood. Additionally, ask your proxy inspector for their personal feedback on the area during the inspection. A well-versed service like View Buddy can provide insights into the local community, amenities, and transportation links in the report.

6. Time Zone Differences and Scheduling Issues

Time zone differences can present challenges, particularly when coordinating virtual property tours or remote inspections. For instance, if you are currently in Sydney and want to attend a live virtual inspection in Perth, scheduling conflicts can arise, making it hard to attend at the appointed time.

Solution: Opt for services that are flexible and can provide recorded video tours if you’re unable to join a live virtual inspection. Same-day reports and video walkthroughs from View Buddy allow you to view the property at your convenience, regardless of time zone differences. This flexibility ensures that renters don’t miss out on any critical information, even if they can’t attend the live inspection.

7. Limited Understanding of the Rental Market

The property market can vary significantly between cities like Sydney and Perth, and renters may not have a full understanding of what’s expected or required in their new city. From differing rent prices to local property trends, there may be confusion over what to prioritise when renting remotely.

Solution: Do some research on the local rental market before committing to a property. Websites like realestate.com.au and domain.com.au offer insights into rental trends across Australia. Additionally, working with a professional remote inspection service ensures you get expert advice on how the rental process works in the new location.

8. Unexpected Delays in the Process

Sometimes, technical issues or delays in communication between the property agent and proxy inspector can slow down the inspection process. This can be frustrating, especially when renters are eager to secure a property quickly.

Solution: Choose a reliable service that promises timely delivery. View Buddy provides same-day reports, which help you avoid unnecessary delays and move forward with your rental application swiftly.

Conclusion

Remote property inspections may come with their challenges, but with the right strategies and professional support, you can overcome them smoothly. View Buddy Perth offers a comprehensive solution for those looking to rent in Perth or other Australian cities remotely, ensuring you never miss out on securing your dream home. By using a trusted proxy inspection service, you can rest assured that all legal requirements are met, and you’ll have the detailed information you need to make an informed decision.

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Jo Stuart, owner of View Buddy Perth, leads the only female-run rental inspection agency in Perth, WA. Known for her attention to detail, Jo ensures personalized, client-focused services that go beyond generic rental inspections.

Jo Stuart

Jo Stuart, owner of View Buddy Perth, leads the only female-run rental inspection agency in Perth, WA. Known for her attention to detail, Jo ensures personalized, client-focused services that go beyond generic rental inspections.

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