HomeWorks Optimal Market Rent-Ready Unit Checklist

A Strategic Protocol for Compliance, Performance, and ROI

Overview: This checklist is the definitive operational blueprint for HomeWorks Property Management's Field Operations team. It consolidates the requirements from Baltimore City/County rental inspections and the MDE Lead Hazard assessment into a single, actionable tool. The purpose is to move beyond simple compliance by categorizing findings into a three-tiered scope of work. This enables HWPM to present owners with a clear, itemized plan that distinguishes between mandatory repairs, performance-optimizing tasks, and value-add improvements. A new Neighborhood Condition Report has been added to provide strategic context, guiding investment decisions to maximize the property's appeal and return on investment (ROI).

Procedure:

  1. Define Repair Categories: During the assessment, categorize each deficiency into one of three tiers: Category 1 (Mandatory), Category 2 (Optimal Performance), or Category 3 (ROI Enhancement).
  2. Conduct Systematic Assessment: Inspect the unit and the immediate neighborhood, evaluating each component.
  3. Document & Categorize Findings: For each item, mark its status (Pass/Fail/N/A). If "Fail," assign a Repair Category and detail the Recommended Action/Scope of Work. Complete the Neighborhood Condition Report in Section 8.
  4. Photograph All Deficiencies: Take clear, well-lit photographs of every item marked "Fail." This is mandatory for creating work orders and for the owner's scope of work proposal.
  5. Identify Root Causes: For any paint failure or water damage, identify and document the suspected structural root cause (e.g., roof leak, gutter failure).
  6. Submit for Action: Upon completion, submit the checklist and all photos to the Maintenance Manager. The output will be used to generate a detailed, itemized scope of work and a strategic recommendation for the property owner.

Section 1: Property Information

Instruction: Accurately complete all fields to identify the property. This information is crucial for tracking and official documentation.

Section 2: Health, Safety & Mechanical Systems

Instruction: Test all systems for functionality. These items are primarily Category 1 (Mandatory) and essential for obtaining a rental license.

Section 3: MDE Lead Paint Visual Assessment

Instruction: For pre-1978 properties, meticulously inspect all painted surfaces. Any "Fail" requires mandatory remediation (Category 1).

Part 3.1: Interior Visual Inspection

Part 3.2: Exterior Visual Inspection

Section 4: Structural, Weather Integrity & General Condition

Instruction: Assess the building envelope and general conditions. Failures here are typically Category 1 or 2. Identify the root cause for any structural defects.

Section 5: Kitchen & Bathrooms (Performance & Appeal)

Instruction: Evaluate for both functionality (Category 2) and market appeal. Deficiencies can be categorized as 2 or 3 based on severity and market.

Section 6: Interior Finishes & Market Appeal (Performance & ROI)

Instruction: Assess cosmetic condition. Categorize issues as 2 (performance) or 3 (ROI) based on the strategic goals for the property.

Section 7: Egress & Special Conditions (Mandatory Category 1)

Instruction: Verify all safety egress requirements are met. Any failure is a mandatory Category 1 repair.

Section 8: Neighborhood Condition Report & Strategic Investment Guide

Instruction: Assess the external market factors to provide a data-driven investment recommendation to the owner.