Start with documents, dates, and access
Confirm the inspection date, scope stated in the notice, agency contact, property and unit information, and any access instructions. Organize available certificates, permits, prior correction records, maintenance logs, pest reports, and recent invoices without presenting unverified documents as official approvals.
Plan lawful access with the property manager: tenant notices, keys, escorts, pets, language needs, locked rooms, roof or utility access, and a process for missed units. Follow current law and the notice rather than relying on a generic checklist.
Review common and exterior conditions
Walk stairs, guards and handrails, corridors, exits, lighting, doors, gates, addresses, refuse areas, garages, accessory structures, roofs where safely accessible, drainage, exterior walls, balconies and elevated elements, windows, and visible signs of water intrusion or deterioration.
Do not conceal a condition for inspection. Restrict unsafe areas where appropriate and obtain the right professional evaluation for structural, fire, hazardous-material, or other specialized concerns.
Review units and building systems
Check observable plumbing fixtures and leaks, hot and cold water, drainage, electrical covers and visible hazards, heating and ventilation operation, smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms where required, windows and doors, sanitation, pests, damaged finishes, and indications of moisture or mold-related conditions.
A visual readiness review does not replace destructive investigation, code-required testing, specialty certification, or official inspection. Record inaccessible and untested items expressly.
Create a correction and verification log
For each finding, record location, photograph, priority, responsible trade, permit or design question, scheduled action, completion evidence, and final verification. Escalate immediate safety or active-damage conditions and avoid waiting for the inspection date to address them.
Requirements vary by property and can change. The official notice and current LAHD guidance control; a private checklist cannot guarantee a passing inspection.