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Inspections 5 min read

Spotting unauthorised occupants on a routine inspection

A second toothbrush. A coat in the wrong size. The quiet signs that tell an experienced clerk more people are living in the property than the agreement allows.

Spotting unauthorised occupants on a routine inspection

Unauthorised occupants almost never declare themselves. The clerk who picks it up on a routine inspection is usually picking up small visual cues rather than meeting an extra person.

Signs that come up most often

  • A second toothbrush, second razor, second set of toiletries in a one-person let.
  • Adult-sized clothing in a child’s bedroom.
  • Mattresses on the floor of rooms that should be empty.
  • Mail addressed to names that are not on the tenancy.

What to do with what you see

Do not confront the tenant on the spot. Note observations in the inspection report, photograph where appropriate, and let the property manager raise it via the proper channel afterwards.

A calm, written conversation produces far better outcomes than an awkward exchange in someone’s living room.

Outsource the legwork. Spend tomorrow winning new instructions.

A 15-minute call is all it takes to set up your branch and start ordering the services your team needs.