What happens at the DASH property visit?
DASH are currently undertaking property inspections ‘virtually’ via the smartphone video messaging app ‘WhatsApp’. We aim to see at least a 10% sample of a landlords property list. We are happy to undertake this ‘virtual’ inspection with the Landlord, the Tenant or the Letting Agent, as no prior knowledge of property safety is required.
Our inspector will call the nominated contact to arrange a convenient date and time to undertake the ‘virtual inspection’. You or they will need to make sure any other relevant tenants are informed about the inspection, and that every room is accessible for the agreed date and time. This will include looking at cellars, basements and gardens, but not loft spaces (unless they are bedrooms). You will need to ensure that at least 24 hours notification is given to any tenants.
On the day our inspector will call at the date and time agreed, via the ‘WhatsApp’ application. They will work around each room and ask to see things such as the handrail on the stairs. During the call, just point the camera as directed by our inspector.
The DASH inspector will have a floor plan and will be making notes (so you don’t have to). You won’t need to do any prior preparation, or be asked any difficult questions, just be ready to point the camera as directed. If you do have a tape measure handy, that can sometimes be helpful if there are any low windowsills or escape windows to measure but it is definitely not essential.
The calls are not recorded but please try and ensure that children/vulnerable residents are not present during the call.
If there are going to be any access limitations, please let the inspector know at the start of the call.
If you have any questions during the inspection, please try to wait until the inspection is completed, so the inspector can finish their notes first – that way we don’t miss anything. The inspector will ask you if you have any questions before the call ends and will be more than happy to answer any questions then.
The length of the inspection varies dependent on the size of the property and its condition, but most take about 15-20 minutes.
After the inspection, the inspector will complete a short report of any hazards identified during the inspection and what needs to be done to put them right. This will be emailed to the landlord within approximately 10 days of the inspection being carried out.
How to deal with DASH works requested
