Oh no! Unexpected flat inspection

CCP

Eek! :eek: I've just had a phone call from the letting agency which manages my rented flat, asking to come round and do an inspection on Thursday. They've almost totally ignored me for the past five years or so, so I don't know why they're suddenly taking an interest, but now I'm panicking as the flat's an absolute tip.

Part of it's not my fault - a couple of major leaks that they took months for them to repair have left me with lots of mould and crumbling plaster - but some of it is my fault as I haven't been well enough (or, frankly, enthusiastic enough - I loathe housework ) to keep things under control. It looks like I'll be spending my next couple of evenings cleaning and tidying (oh, joy :undecided).

Just wanted to share / vent, really!

fairy_lights

They're not there to pass judgement on how you live or how tidy the flat is, your mess in none of their business. Inspections are partly just to check for any problems and make sure you haven't knocked any walls down and majorly damaged the property, but are also a chance for you to point out any issues you think need addressing.
If you wanted to make jam in the bath tub and cure meats in the bedroom while hoarding years worth of newspapers it wouldn't be any of the agents business, as long as you return the property to it's original condition when you move out.

good_advice

Get some music on and get decluttering....

I hope they do not want to come round with a view of pushing you out and selling the flat?

Good luck.

CCP

Thanks, fairy lights - that's comforting.

I've been reading up on Flylady, as this may be the kick up the rear I need to start getting things sorted out. Might go and post on that thread now, actually...

FairyPrincessk

Think of it as a reason to have a concentrated quick go at making it a bit more pleasant for yourself, rather than an enforced tidy up on someone else's terms. I'd also take the opportunity to point out the problems from the leaks, it is technically their job to make those good for you.

CCP

good_advice wrote: »

I hope they do not want to come round with a view of pushing you out and selling the flat?

It's possible - I've been trying to persuade them to fix the damage caused by the leaks for the past 18 months or so and they keep ignoring me, so I have been wondering if they want me to move out so they can completely renovate the place. If they do, I wish they'd just say so - I've asked the landlord this question directly and he just refuses to answer.

monnagran

Do not underestimate the value of bin-bags. Dirty washing in one, clutter in another, rubbish in another..... can be piled up in a wardrobe or stacked neatly in a corner. This is a project-in-waiting. Then tidy as much as possible. If you haven't time or energy to put things away at least stack things n neat piles, it looks much better. Then go like crazy with a damp cloth and a vaccuum. Lastly spray with Febreze or similar. In the winter spraying the radiators with polish gives the impression that you have been busy with dusters.

These are all labour-saving devices I have used much too frequently. As a last resort retire to bed with copious tissues and an overpowering aroma of Vick or Olbas Oil, let the inspectors in, apologise weakly and see how fast they make their departure.

x

allybee101

My rare visits from the letting agents were normally preceded with a few nights of panicked tidying
Make use of wardrobes/ cupboards to stash bags as monnagran says. Remove actual rubbish to the bin, wash the dishes, dust surfaces and hoover. They can't tell you off/evict you for having lots of belongings so don't worry too much about untidiness.

tooties

Hi,

I had an inspection last year, went well and the letting agent asked if i had any problems/issues, i said not really. Then they hit me with a rent rise which i tried to fight but they won in the end.
Hope it all goes well for you and you get the repairs that you need.

Best of luck

regards

BitterAndTwisted

CCP wrote: »

I've been trying to persuade them to fix the damage caused by the leaks for the past 18 months or so and they keep ignoring me, so I have been wondering if they want me to move out so they can completely renovate the place. If they do, I wish they'd just say so - I've asked the landlord this question directly and he just refuses to answer.

A landlord's periodic inspection is for the purpose of checking the condition of the property not to critique your housekeeping. Although some letting-agents are more impertinent than others.

The lack of an answer to your question to the landlord is very telling. The next thing you know, they will be asking for access for builders to come round and quantify the cost of renovations. And then an estate agent to provide a valuation. None of whom have a right of entry, so you can refuse to grant them access if you like. Don't make it easy for the beggars unless there's something in it for you.

CCP

BitterAndTwisted wrote: »

The lack of an answer to your question to the landlord is very telling. The next thing you know, they will be asking for access for builders to come round and quantify the cost of renovations. And then an estate agent to provide a valuation. None of whom have a right of entry, so you can refuse to grant them access if you like. Don't make it easy for the beggars unless there's something in it for you.

I've had someone round to do a quote on renovations twice, and a third appointment where the bloke didn't turn up. I've even agreed to pay a higher rent if the place is renovated (I'm currently paying well under the market rate) and they STILL haven't done anything about it. I should just give up and move, but it's so much hassle!