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.
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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.
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