QBE Insurance is calling on landlords across Australia to take a more proactive approach to property management, stressing the value of regular inspections in reducing damage, avoiding disputes, and improving insurance outcomes.
According to a QBE survey of 500 landlords in April 2025, a significant number of property owners are falling short when it comes to routine property assessments. In fact, 16% of respondents said they either conducted inspections only once a year, didn’t inspect at all, or were unsure about inspection frequency.
While nearly 38% of landlords said they inspect quarterly and 46% opt for six-monthly checks, the remaining group may be exposing their properties—and insurance coverage—to avoidable risks.
Why Regular Inspections Matter for Landlords
QBE’s technical manager for householders, Tony Waizer, emphasized that routine inspections offer a powerful tool for early detection of issues. “The sooner damage is identified, the less time, money, and hassle it costs the landlord,” he noted.
Issues such as leaking taps, minor water damage, mould, and pet-related wear and tear (e.g., chewed carpets or dug-up gardens) can escalate if not caught early. What starts as a simple fix can easily snowball into expensive repairs or rejected insurance claims.
Additionally, inspections provide tenants with an opportunity to report problems they might otherwise overlook. As a result, landlords can address maintenance issues before they affect property value or habitability.
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End-of-Lease Inspections Are Critical
QBE also urges landlords to perform thorough inspections during tenant transitions, not only to determine possible bond deductions but also to verify that the home meets safety standards for new occupants.
Common hazards during lease transitions include:
- Broken fixtures and fittings
- Damaged staircases or flooring
- Exposed or faulty electrical components
- Mould or mildew buildup
Left unresolved, these hazards can increase legal liabilities or result in negative tenant experiences, leading to higher vacancy rates and reduced rental income.
Most Common Problems Found During Property Checks
QBE’s claims data from 2024 shows that storm and water damage were the most common reasons for landlord insurance claims. Other frequent issues uncovered during inspections include:
- Accidental damage
- Leaking roofs or plumbing
- Malicious property damage
- Pet-related destruction
- Evidence of illegal activities, such as drug manufacturing
These findings highlight the importance of consistent property assessments—not just to prevent loss, but also to protect landlords legally and financially.
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Financial Vulnerability and Lack of Insurance Coverage
The QBE survey also revealed troubling financial gaps among landlords. Thirty-eight percent of respondents said they could not financially cope beyond six weeks without rental income, and only 56% held landlord-specific insurance policies.
Among those who experienced tenant-related issues:
- 34% faced rent arrears
- 30% reported property damage
- 17% suffered uninsured losses, typically because their policies lacked key features such as rent default or malicious damage cover
This underlines how landlord insurance with comprehensive coverage is vital—not just for peace of mind, but for long-term property profitability.
Legal Compliance and Insurance Claims Support
Regular inspections also help landlords meet their legal obligations, including requirements for:
- Working smoke alarms
- Secure windows and doors
- Proper drainage and plumbing systems
In the event of a claim, having detailed inspection records can prove due diligence and increase the likelihood of a successful payout.
Moreover, Waizer pointed out that strong communication can reduce risks even further: “Where there’s a great relationship between tenant and landlord, our observation is the property is respected and rent payments are prioritised.”
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Final Thoughts: Inspections Are a Smart Investment
QBE believes that landlords who prioritize routine property checks not only maintain safer homes but also enjoy smoother insurance processes, better relationships with tenants, and reduced long-term costs.
As insurance companies continue to scrutinize claims more closely, especially in today’s volatile rental market, regular inspections are a practical and strategic tool for safeguarding your investment. Don’t wait until a major issue arises—stay ahead with preventative maintenance and comprehensive coverage.
