Rodney Beystrom, Inspector

 

1) Out with sparky outlets: With an electrical tester make sure every outlet in the kitchen, bath and laundry/utility area has secure and grounded three-prong electrical outlets. If defective, installation by a qualified electrician of GFI grounded outlets is required. This is a good time to check all outlets for proper grounding and function. All electrical panels present must have covers; no unused openings are allowed in the face cover. Breaker spacer covers need to be installed over any of these openings.

 

2) Love those self slamming doors: Apartment entry doors and common area hallway fire doors need to self-close.

3) No poo – pooing the plumbing: Check plumbing under sinks for leaks and proper drain function. Disposals must work properly and be free of non-disposable items. Kitchen and bath faucets and sprayers (if present) must function properly and not leak. Tub faucets and the shower diverter valve must properly function. Damage to bathroom ceilings from any leaks need to be repaired. Bathroom vents need to vent properly. The toilet must flush and shut off properly and bolted to the floor securely. 

4) Avoid roasting marshmellows over grease fires:   Range vent hood filter should be free of grease and debris and the fan/light function. Lift up the stove top to remove all grease and debris and make sure the pilots light (if gas) and burners are functioning normally and safely. Gas supply line should be free of kinks; if kinked, the line needs replacing by a qualified gas installer.

5) Check on Smokey the Bear’s Buzzer: Smoke alarms should sound when the test button is pushed. Any units with newly installed windows or patio doors are required to have smoke alarms installed inside the bedrooms in appropriate locations per the instructions of the manufacturer of the alarm. Typically this is on the ceiling or between 6" to 10" down on the wall. Battery operated alarms are acceptable. Alkaline batteries are recommended they last approximately 1 to 1 1/2 yrs. or longer. It is a good idea to install them anyway to reduce liability and increase safety if a firewere to start inside the bedroom and the bedroom door is closed.

6) Mosquitoes are our outdoor friends: All patio doors and windows should open, close, and lock properly. Screens are required from April 15th until October 15th.

7) No toe casts: Carpets and flooring be free from tears and trip hazards.

8) Winter is always near in Minnesota: Thermostats need to be covered and work properly. Base floor heat runs should have covers and zone valves operating normally to distribute heat.

9) Boom boom is for music, not boilers: Annual check of the boiler room RPZ valves needs to be conducted by qualified licensed contractor or certified individual.

10) Extinguishers and cans of pop all need fizz: All fire extinguishers must be checked and updated yearly by qualified individuals.

These "tips" are not all encompassing but will greatly enhance a property’s ability to pass the Brooklyn Park Rental Licensing Inspection the very first time.