10 Reasons You Might Fail an Apartment Inspection

If you fail an apartment inspection, you’ll usually get a written notice listing the issues and a deadline to fix them. In most cases, you’ll have the chance to make repairs, schedule a reinspection, and protect your rental history. But depending on the severity, you could also risk losing part of your security deposit, paying repair costs, or facing lease violations.

Apartment inspections can feel stressful—especially when you’re not sure what a landlord is looking for. Maybe you forgot to report that leaky faucet and now there’s water damage. Maybe your pet got a little too enthusiastic with the baseboards. Or maybe you’re just wondering how long apartment inspections take and what happens if you don’t pass.

Here’s the good news: failing an inspection isn’t the end of the world. Most issues can be fixed if you know what landlords look for and how to prepare. Let’s break it down.

Failing Apartment Inspections Guide

What Is an Apartment Inspection?

An apartment inspection is when your landlord, property manager, or a hired inspector checks the condition of your unit. Inspections usually take 24–48 hours to complete and can happen:

• Before you move out
• In response to a maintenance request
• As part of a Section 8 inspection
• Occasionally as a surprise spot-check

The main goal? To make sure your apartment is safe, livable, meets local housing laws or insurance policy guidelines, and is in line with your lease agreement.

What Do Landlords Look for During an Apartment Inspection?

Wondering what can a landlord look at during an inspection? Think of it as a walkthrough with an apartment inspection checklist in hand. Common checkpoints include:

You can always ask your landlord if they have a copy of their apartment inspection checklist—so you know exactly what to expect.

What Are the Most Common Reasons Renters Fail Apartment Inspections?

If you’re stressing about what inspectors look for, here are the top 10 reasons renters don’t pass:

1. Lack of cleanliness: Excessive dirt, clutter, or hoarding.
2. Property damage: Holes in walls, broken windows, or damaged appliances.
3. Plumbing or electrical issues: Leaks, exposed wires, or malfunctioning smoke detectors.
4. Unauthorized modifications: Painting walls without approval, removing fixtures, or adding structures.
5. Pest infestations: Signs of roaches, rodents, bedbugs, or other pests.
6. Lease violations: Extra roommates, unauthorized pets, or smoking in non-smoking units.
7. Failure to complete required maintenance: Ignoring repair requests or not reporting issues in time.
8. Blocked emergency exits: Storing items in front of doors or windows that serve as emergency exits.
9. Neglected appliances: Dirty ovens, clogged dryer vents, or broken fridge seals.
10. Lingering odors: Strong smells from pets, smoke, or trash that indicate poor upkeep.

Failing for one of these reasons doesn’t necessarily mean eviction—but it can mean a “pass with conditions” apartment status, where you’ll need to make repairs before you’re fully cleared.

What Can’t a Landlord Do During an Apartment Inspection?

A landlord cannot invade your privacy or use inspections as harassment. That means they can’t go through your personal belongings, force their way into locked spaces, or show up without proper notice (usually 24–48 hours in writing).

Here’s a quick breakdown of what landlords are not allowed to do during inspections:

• Go through your personal belongings or locked cabinets
• Show up without proper notice
• Schedule repeated or intimidating inspections without cause
• Ignore major safety hazards (like mold, broken heat, or lack of water)

Bottom line: inspections are meant to keep apartments safe—not to cross boundaries. If your landlord steps out of line, you have options to protect your rights.

What Happens After a Failed Apartment Inspection?

If you’re wondering what happens if you fail an apartment inspection, take a deep breath. Failing doesn’t mean instant eviction—but it does come with consequences. Here’s what to expect and how to bounce back.

You’ll Receive a Notice of Inspection Failure

If your unit doesn’t meet the standards in your lease or local housing codes, you’ll get a formal notice spelling out the problems. This notice usually includes:

• A list of each violation
• A deadline for fixing them
• A follow-up inspection date (in some cases)

Keep this notice—it’s an official record, and you’ll need it for documentation.

Special case: If you fail a Section 8 inspection checklist, the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) can be withheld from your landlord until repairs are made. You’ll still need to pay your portion of rent, so it’s important to address issues quickly.

Your Security Deposit May Be at Risk

After failing an inspection, you may wonder, “Is a security deposit refundable?” If the violations are serious enough—like excessive damage, unauthorized changes to the apartment, or significant cleanliness problems—you could lose part or all of your deposit.

To avoid losing your security deposit, keep thorough documentation of the apartment’s condition when you move in. This will help protect you from unnecessary fees.

Your Might Have to Pay for Repairs

If the issues found during the inspection go beyond normal wear and tear, you’ll probably be responsible for covering the costs. For example, you’ll need to pay to repair an appliance you obviously damaged or replace a carpet your pets damaged.

Landlords may require you to hire a professional for major repairs. But if you’re handy, you might be able to handle some minor fixes on your own.

Ignoring repair requests can escalate consequences. Not only could you incur additional penalties, but repeated negligence could impact lease renewal, lead to fines, or even trigger eviction proceedings in extreme cases. Promptly addressing repairs demonstrates good faith and helps maintain a positive relationship with your landlord.

Your Could Face Lease Violations

If your apartment fails an apartment inspection due to a lease violation—like an unauthorized pet, your significant other moving in without being on the lease, or smoking indoors—you could be in breach of your lease agreement.

The upside? Many landlords allow you to correct the problem and stay in the apartment. The downside? Repeat violations can lead to steep fines—or even lease termination.

You May Have to Undergo a Reinspection

Fail once, fix the issues, then get reinspected. That’s the usual process. The failure notice will often include a reinspection date.

• Pass → you’re back in good standing.
• Fail again → expect more fees and penalties.

Pro tip: Do your own final walkthrough before the re-inspection to make sure everything’s resolved.

You Could Be Charged Additional Fees

Some landlords charge reinspection fees if multiple inspections are necessary to verify that problems are corrected. In some cases, fees may be waived if the tenant resolves the issues before the scheduled reinspection, providing an incentive to act quickly.

Beyond reinspection fees, tenants may face fines for specific lease violations. For example, unauthorized pets or smoking indoors could result in charges, even if the unit eventually passes the reinspection. The faster you resolve issues, the less likely you’ll face extra charges.

Rent Increases Might Be on the Table

If you consistently fail inspections, your landlord may raise your rent or refuse to renew your lease at all. Landlords will usually justify increases based on additional maintenance costs due to the lease violations.

Keeping your apartment in good condition can help you stay on good terms with property management and avoid rent raises. Depending on what city you live in, rent control laws may limit how much landlords can raise rent due to damages.

You Risk Getting Evicted

Are you worried about how to rent with an eviction on your record? In extreme cases, failing an inspection can put you at risk of eviction, especially if the issues pose a health or safety hazard. Here’s what to know:

• Violations like hoarding, severe mold growth, or structural damage can lead to eviction.
• Legal notices will typically be issued prior to any formal eviction proceedings.
• You may have a chance to resolve the issues before your landlord triggers the eviction process.

If you’re worried about the inspection, consider having an open conversation with your landlord about resolving the issues as quickly as possible.

It Could Affect Your Rental History

Many landlords check people’s rental history before approving new tenants. If you fail inspections multiple times, especially for serious reasons, it could be reported, making it harder for you to rent in the future.

Many property management companies share rental records, and a bad rental history could lead to higher security deposits at future rentals. Keep in mind that references from past landlords matter when applying for a new place.

You Might Have to Negotiate with Your Landlord

If you fail an inspection, be sure to maintain clear communication with your landlord. Some landlords are willing to work with residents to resolve issues without penalties, especially if you’ve been a good renter in the past.

Ask for a specific extension if you need more time for repairs. It’s always best to be honest and proactive about fixing any problems.

What Is the Remediation and Re-inspection Process After a Failed Apartment Inspection?

Here’s a quick remediation checklist if you fail an apartment inspection:

1. Understand the report: Read the notice carefully.
2. Document everything: Take photos or videos of repairs.
3. Communicate: Confirm with your landlord that you’re addressing all items.
4. Prepare for reinspection: Do your own final walkthrough.

Following these steps reduces the risk of extra fees or penalties—and keeps your rental record clean.

What Are My Rights If I Fail an Apartment Inspection?

Even after a failed inspection, tenants retain important rights:

• Right to written notice: The landlord must give you a detailed record.
• Right to reasonable remediation time: You should have adequate time to fix issues.
• Right to dispute unfair claims: You can push back with evidence (like move-in photos or maintenance requests).

Knowing your rights ensures your landlord can’t impose arbitrary penalties—or use inspections as harassment.

How Do I Avoid Failing an Apartment Inspection?

The best way to avoid the stress of failing an apartment inspection is to stay on top of maintenance and cleanliness. Here’s what you can do:

By staying ahead of maintenance and cleanliness, you reduce the risk of violations and potential fees while building a positive relationship with your landlord.

Ready to Find Your Next Apartment?

Whether you failed an apartment inspection and need a new place—or you’re just ready for an upgrade—Apartment List can help. We’ll match you with apartments that actually fit your needs (and your budget). Start browsing our apartments today, or take our quick quiz to narrow your search. With Apartment List, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.

What Happens If You Fail an Apartment Inspection FAQs

Can a landlord evict you for failing an apartment inspection?

Yes, but only if the issues are serious (like severe damage, unauthorized tenants, or illegal activity). In most cases, you’ll get a chance to fix problems before eviction is on the table.

How long do you have to fix issues after a failed apartment inspection?

It depends on your lease and local laws. Landlords usually give you a written notice with a deadline, ranging from a few days to a few weeks. Miss the deadline, and you could face fees or even legal action.

What should you do if your landlord fails you unfairly on an inspection?

If you believe the inspection failure was unfair, review your lease agreement and any provided inspection reports. You can request a written explanation from your landlord, provide evidence (such as photos from move-in), and attempt to negotiate. If necessary, you can file a complaint with local housing authorities or seek legal assistance.

Can a failed apartment inspection affect your rental history?

Yes. If it escalates to eviction or legal disputes, it may appear on tenant screening reports. Keep your unit in good shape and resolve disputes quickly to protect your rental record.

Do landlords always do a reinspection after a failed apartment check?

Not always. Some may just deduct repair costs from your deposit. If a reinspection is required, it will be listed in your failure notice.

What happens if you refuse an apartment inspection?

Refusing can violate your lease and lead to fines, termination, or legal action. Landlords have the right to inspect with proper notice. If you’re uncomfortable, talk with your landlord to find a reasonable solution.

How can you dispute a failed apartment inspection?

Start by gathering evidence, such as photos or maintenance records, to prove your case. Request a detailed report from your landlord explaining why you failed. If you believe the decision is unfair, try negotiating or requesting a re-inspection. As a last resort, you can escalate the issue to local tenant advocacy groups or housing authorities.

Does a failed apartment inspection mean you lose your security deposit?

Not necessarily. If you fix the issues in time, your deposit should be safe. But if there’s damage beyond normal wear and tear—or unauthorized changes—expect deductions.

What are the most common reasons for failing an apartment inspection?

• Excessive dirt, clutter, or uncleanliness.
• Property damage, such as holes in walls or broken appliances.
• Plumbing leaks, electrical issues, or missing smoke detectors.
• Unauthorized pets or occupants.
• Pest infestations, like cockroaches or rodents.
• Lease violations, such as smoking in nonsmoking units.
• Failure to complete maintenance requests.

How can you prepare for a surprise apartment inspection?

• Keep your apartment clean and free of clutter at all times.
• Address minor repairs, like fixing leaky faucets or replacing light bulbs.
• Ensure all smoke detectors and appliances are functioning.
• Follow the lease rules regarding pets, guests, and modifications.
• Take out the trash as needed.
• Check for pest issues regularly.

Are landlords required to provide an apartment inspection checklist?

Not always, but many do. Some states or cities require landlords to provide a pre-inspection checklist, especially before move-out inspections. If you’re not sure what will be checked, ask your landlord for a list or refer to your lease agreement.

How do apartment inspections differ from move-out inspections?

Regular apartment inspections are done during a lease agreement to make sure the unit is well maintained—upon moving out and sometimes on the spur of the moment. Move-out inspections focus more on damage and cleaning costs that could impact your security deposit.

What are your rights if you fail an apartment inspection?

Your rights depend on your lease and local tenant laws. In most cases, you have the right to:

• Receive a written notice explaining the failure.
• Be given time to fix the issues before penalties apply.
• Dispute unfair claims or request a second inspection.
• Protect your security deposit if damages are not excessive.

Can you still renew your lease after failing an apartment inspection?

Minor issues usually won’t stop a renewal. But repeated violations, unpaid repair costs, or major damage could lead to non-renewal—or eviction.