Free Routine Inspection Checklist NSW 2026 — Printable PDF
A free printable routine inspection checklist for NSW landlords — covering every room, every compliance item, and every documentation step required under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW).
Print one copy per property before every inspection. Work through it room by room, photograph every item marked for action, and file it with your timestamped photos.
No email address required. Click to download and print.
NSW Routine Inspection Rules — Quick Summary
Before using this checklist, confirm you are following current NSW tenancy law.
| Rule | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Maximum inspections per year | 4 per 12-month period |
| Minimum notice required | 7 days written notice before each inspection |
| Permitted days | Monday to Saturday only |
| Permitted hours | 8:00am to 8:00pm |
| Sundays and public holidays | Not permitted unless tenant agrees in writing |
| Tenant right | To be present during any inspection |
What's Inside the Checklist
The PDF contains 11 sections covering every part of a rental property inspection, plus three reference pages.
Inspection Sections (Parts 1–9)
- Part 1 — Exterior: roof, gutters, garden, fencing, security
- Part 2 — Entry and common areas
- Part 3 — Kitchen
- Part 4 — Living and dining areas
- Part 5 — Bedrooms (three separate sections)
- Part 6 — Bathrooms (two separate sections)
- Part 7 — Laundry
- Part 8 — Compliance and safety (smoke alarms, locks, water efficiency)
- Part 9 — Lease compliance (pets, occupants, modifications)
Documentation and Reference (Parts 10–11 + Bonus)
- Part 10 — Maintenance log with urgency rating
- Part 11 — Inspection summary (date, condition, follow-up)
- NSW inspection rules quick reference table
- Sample 7-day written notice template
- Fair wear and tear vs damage reference guide
How to Use the Status Column
Each item in the checklist has a status column with three options.
OK — Good Condition
Item is in good condition. No action required at this time.
MON — Monitor
Item shows minor wear or early signs of deterioration. Monitor at the next inspection. No immediate action required.
ACT — Action Required
Item requires repair, replacement or follow-up. Photograph immediately and add to the maintenance log.
Photograph every item marked MON or ACT before leaving the property. Use a phone or camera that automatically embeds the date and time in the image metadata.
Who Is This Checklist For?
The checklist reflects current NSW tenancy law as at June 2026 — including the 2025 rental reform requirements around smoke alarms, water efficiency (dual-flush toilets from March 2025), and lease compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many times can I inspect my rental property in NSW?
Under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW), landlords can conduct routine property inspections up to four times per year. Each inspection requires at least 7 days written notice.
Can I use this checklist for the entry condition report?
This checklist is designed for routine inspections during the tenancy. For the entry condition report completed when a new tenant moves in, use the NSW Fair Trading condition report form, which both parties sign and retain a copy of.
Do I have to give the tenant a copy of the inspection report?
It is not legally required, but it is strongly recommended. Providing the tenant with a copy demonstrates transparency, creates a documented record that both parties have seen the same findings, and reduces the risk of disputes at the end of the tenancy.
What happens if the tenant refuses to allow the inspection?
A tenant cannot unreasonably refuse access once proper written notice has been given. If a tenant unreasonably refuses entry after proper notice, you can apply to NCAT for an order permitting access.
Is this checklist suitable for strata properties and units?
Yes. The checklist covers all standard areas of a strata unit or apartment. Common areas such as hallways, car parks, and gardens are the responsibility of the owners corporation and are not included in this checklist.
How often should I conduct routine inspections?
Most professional property managers in Western Sydney conduct two to three inspections per year. For a new tenancy, inspect at around three months. For an established tenancy with a good track record, every six months is standard.
Download the Free Checklist
A4 format, printable PDF. No email address required.
Need Help Managing Your Western Sydney Property?
Real Homes Realty manages investment properties across Western Sydney — including Penrith, Blacktown, Parramatta, Kellyville, Jordan Springs, Schofields, and Claremont Meadows.
Our property management service includes routine inspections conducted using digital reporting software, with timestamped photographic reports delivered to your landlord portal within 24 to 48 hours of every inspection.