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What Is a Duplex/Multiplex Inspection?
A duplex/multiplex inspection is a comprehensive evaluation of multi-unit residential properties, examining each accessible unit individually plus all shared systems and common areas. I understand the unique considerations of multi-unit ownership for both investors and owner-occupants.
Here’s what that means for you: You’ll know the condition of each unit, understand shared system responsibilities, and have the information needed to make smart investment decisions.
What We Inspect During Your Duplex/Multiplex Inspection
Property and Site Features
- Parking areas and driveways
- Landscaping and drainage
- Fences, decks, or outdoor structures
- Separate utility access and meters
Each Individual Unit
- Complete electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems
- All interior fixtures, appliances, and finishes
- Windows, doors, and security features
- Unit-specific safety and code compliance
Common Areas and Structure
- Building structure and foundation
- Shared entrances, hallways, or stairways
- Roof system and gutters
- Exterior siding, windows, and doors
Investment Considerations
- Rental potential and condition assessment
- Maintenance accessibility and costs
- Tenant safety and security features
- Code compliance for rental properties
Shared Building Systems
- Main electrical panels and distribution
- Central heating/cooling systems if shared
- Water supply and sewer connections
- Shared utility meters and connections
Why Multi-Unit Properties Need Specialized Inspection
Complex System Interactions
Multi-unit properties often have shared utilities, HVAC systems, or structural elements that affect multiple units. Understanding these interactions is crucial for maintenance planning.
Investment Property Considerations
Whether you plan to live in one unit or rent all units, the property’s rental potential, maintenance costs, and tenant appeal significantly affect your investment returns.
Regulatory and Code Requirements
Multi-unit properties often have different code requirements than single-family homes, including fire safety, egress, and electrical standards that affect habitability.
Maintenance and Management Complexity
Each unit has its own maintenance needs, while shared systems require coordination. Understanding these complexities helps with budgeting and management planning.
What You Get with Your Duplex/Multiplex Inspection
Unit-by-Unit Assessment
- Individual condition report for each unit
- Rental readiness evaluation for each space
- Maintenance priority lists by unit
- Revenue potential assessment per unit
Shared System Analysis
- Evaluation of shared utilities and systems
- Maintenance responsibility clarification
- Cost-sharing considerations for repairs
- Upgrade or replacement planning
Investment Analysis Support
- Maintenance cost projections
- Rental market positioning advice
- Safety and code compliance status
- Long-term ownership planning guidance
Who Needs a Duplex/Multiplex Inspection?
Owner-Occupants
If you plan to live in one unit and rent the others, you need to understand both your living space and the condition of rental units that will generate income.
Real Estate Investors
If you’re buying for rental income, you need to understand each unit’s condition, rental potential, and maintenance requirements to accurately project returns.
First-Time Multi-Unit Buyers
Multi-unit ownership has different challenges than single-family homes. Professional inspection helps you understand what you’re taking on.
Property Management Companies
Management companies need detailed condition assessments to plan maintenance, set rental rates, and advise property owners on necessary improvements.
Investment Property Considerations
Rental Income Potential
- Market rental rates for each unit condition
- Improvements needed to maximize rents
- Tenant appeal and marketability factors
- Vacancy risk based on condition and location
Operating Cost Factors
- Maintenance and repair cost projections
- Utility cost allocation between units
- Property management complexity and costs
- Insurance considerations for multi-unit properties
Regulatory Compliance
- Local rental property licensing requirements
- Safety code compliance for tenant occupancy
- Required disclosures and documentation
- Inspection requirements for rental properties
Common Duplex/Multiplex Issues We Find
Shared System Problems
- Inadequate electrical capacity for multiple units
- Plumbing cross-connections between units
- HVAC systems not properly zoned or separated
- Utility meter confusion or shared billing issues
Individual Unit Concerns
- Units in varying condition requiring different maintenance
- Safety code violations in rental units
- Outdated electrical or plumbing in older units
- Inadequate insulation or soundproofing between units
Property Management Issues
- Parking inadequacy for multiple tenants
- Drainage problems affecting multiple units
- Security concerns with multiple access points
- Maintenance access problems between units
Investment Impact Problems
- Deferred maintenance affecting rental potential
- Code violations that limit rental options
- Energy efficiency problems increasing utility costs
- Structural issues requiring expensive repairs
Duplex/Multiplex Inspection Process
Pre-Inspection Planning
I’ll coordinate with you to understand occupancy status, access arrangements, and your specific investment or occupancy plans for the property.
Individual Unit Inspections
Each accessible unit gets a complete inspection as if it were a separate property, examining all systems, safety features, and condition factors.
Shared System Evaluation
I’ll examine all shared utilities, structural elements, and common areas to understand maintenance responsibilities and potential issues.
Property-Wide Assessment
The overall property gets evaluated for curb appeal, parking adequacy, drainage, and other factors that affect rental potential and value.
Investment Strategy Consultation
I’ll discuss findings in context of your investment goals, whether that’s maximizing rental income, minimizing maintenance costs, or preparing for resale.
Ready to Evaluate Your Multi-Unit Investment?
Whether you’re buying your first duplex or adding to your portfolio, know exactly what you’re getting into with each unit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you inspect each unit separately?
Yes, each accessible unit gets a complete individual inspection, plus I examine all shared systems and common areas that affect the overall property.
What if units are currently occupied?
I work with occupied units respectfully and professionally. We’ll coordinate access with current tenants and focus on accessible areas during the inspection.
How do you evaluate rental potential?
I assess each unit’s condition, safety, and marketability based on local rental standards, plus identify improvements that could increase rental income.
What if units need different levels of work?
This is common. I’ll provide a prioritized maintenance plan that helps you decide which units to address first based on rental potential and safety concerns.
Do you help with investment analysis?
While I don’t provide financial advice, I do help you understand maintenance costs, improvement potential, and condition factors that affect your investment planning.