Lighting, leaks, and latches: The 3 L’s every inspector should check twice
Routine inspections aren’t just about ticking boxes. They’re about safety, prevention, and protecting the long-term condition of a property. Whether you own, manage, or live in a rental, the biggest problems rarely start big. They begin as small, easily dismissed annoyances.
Over time, I’ve found that three simple areas consistently cause the most avoidable issues:
Lighting.
Leaks.
Latches.
Leaks.
Latches.
They sound basic. That’s exactly why they’re often overlooked.
Lighting: more than just a bulb
We expect lights to work. Flip the switch, job done. But when a light flickers, buzzes, or cuts out intermittently, it shouldn’t be ignored. It might be a bulb. It might also be faulty wiring, a loose connection, or an overloaded circuit.
During inspections, it’s worth:
- switching on every light
- checking exterior lighting
- testing key power outlets
- noting any tenant-reported electrical issues
A flicker might seem minor, but electrical faults can escalate quickly. For tenants, poor lighting affects comfort and safety. For landlords, ignoring early warning signs can mean larger electrical repairs later. If it’s raised - document it.
Leaks: the quiet damage
If one issue consistently turns into costly repairs, it’s moisture. Bathrooms, kitchens, and laundries are high-risk zones. But leaks rarely present themselves dramatically.
More often, it’s:
- a musty smell
- minor staining
- soft flooring near fixtures
- a loose shower seal
- damp cabinetry under sinks
Small, slow leaks are the most expensive ones - because they go unnoticed. Water doesn’t stay contained. It spreads into flooring, walls, ceilings, and even structural elements.
For tenants:
- check under sinks occasionally
- report stains or persistent damp smells
- flag loose seals or dripping taps early
For landlords and managers:
- treat water concerns as priority
- ensure ventilation systems work properly
- address small moisture issues before they escalate
Latches: security you shouldn’t assume
Doors and windows are more than entry points. They’re security systems and emergency exits. During inspections, don’t just glance at them - test them.
- Does the door close smoothly?
- Does the latch catch firmly?
- Does the lock function properly?
- Can windows open and close safely?
A faulty latch isn’t cosmetic - it’s a safety issue. Sometimes a quick photo captures the problem. Other times, a short video showing a jammed window or misaligned lock tells the full story. Tenants should report latch issues immediately. Landlords should prioritise them. Security is not optional.
Why these get missed
Lighting, leaks, and latches don’t always look dramatic. And when inspections become rushed or overly focused on surface cleanliness, these practical checks can be skipped. But tidy doesn’t equal safe. The most expensive disputes often start with a small issue that wasn’t documented early.
Slow down. Check twice.
Inspections work best when they’re structured and consistent. For inspectors, that means:
- using a clear checklist
- checking functionality - not just appearance
- documenting even minor concerns
- including tenant-reported issues
Lighting. Leaks. Latches.
Three simple checks that protect safety, reduce disputes, and prevent costly surprises.
Start your free trial of myInspections and make every inspection count.
***
The information contained in this article is exclusively for promotional purposes. It does not in any way constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as the basis for any legal action or contractual dealings. The information is not and does not attempt to be, a comprehensive account of the relevant law. If you require legal advice, you should seek independent legal counsel. myInspections does not accept any liability that may arise from the use of this information.
***
The information contained in this article is exclusively for promotional purposes. It does not in any way constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as the basis for any legal action or contractual dealings. The information is not and does not attempt to be, a comprehensive account of the relevant law. If you require legal advice, you should seek independent legal counsel. myInspections does not accept any liability that may arise from the use of this information.
More resources
The most commonly missed items during routine inspections (and how to avoid them)
Insights from a property inspector who’s completed hundreds of inspections
If you own or manage a rental property, you probably already understand why routine inspections matter. They’re not just about ticking boxes or making sure the place looks presentable — they help catch problems early, protect your investment, and ensure tenants stay safe and happy.
But even experienced landlords, property managers, and yes, professional inspectors, can overlook things. I know this because I’ve conduct...
Things to look for at the beginning of an inspection
You don’t need to be a pro to spot the most common issues in a property. The first few minutes of an inspection can often tell you more than the rest of the walkthrough. Starting with the right mindset helps set the tone for the whole inspection.
There are certain signs that, if checked early, can quickly reveal a lot about a property’s condition. For example, checking the areas around a shower might show the first hints of mould before it turns into a major hazard. Similarly, a small crack ...
6 lessons from inspecting 100 properties
By the time most inspectors reach their 100th property, they’re a lot more confident than on day one. The first few inspections often take longer, nerves get in the way, and mistakes are easier to make. But with time, certain lessons stand out as the ones that make inspections smoother, more consistent, and more professional.
Here are six of the biggest lessons learned from inspecting 100 properties.
1. Communication is everything
Tenants often downplay problems — not out of dishonesty, but...
Setting up your team’s portfolio
If you’re new to myInspections on our Manager or Team plan, getting the right setup from day one really helps. Having your templates and properties ready before inviting the rest of your team makes it easier for them to get started and helps keep inspections consistent across the whole portfolio.
This guide will walk you through the setup order I recommend for teams on the Manager or Team plan.
1. Create checklist templates - These define what gets checked in each room or area.
2. Group check...
Ready to dive in?
Get started today with a 14-day free trial. No contract, cancel anytime. Just faster inspections.