Apartment Complex Grounds and Landscaping Monthly Inspection Checklist
This apartment complex grounds and landscaping monthly inspection checklist ensures the exterior of multi-family communities presents a safe, attractive, and well-maintained environment that supports resident satisfaction and property value. Grounds conditions directly impact the initial impression of prospective residents, resident retention, and community reputation. Beyond aesthetics, grounds inspections identify safety hazards including hazardous trees, trip hazards on walkways, non-function
- Industry: Property Management
- Frequency: Monthly
- Estimated Time: 45-60 minutes
- Role: Property Manager / Groundskeeper / Leasing Consultant
- Total Items: 28
- Compliance: ICC International Property Maintenance Code Section 302 (Exterior Property), ANSI A300 Tree Care Standards, OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1054 (Tree Trimming), ADA Accessibility Guidelines (Accessible Routes), Local Ordinance Landscape and Tree Requirements
Trees and Vegetation Safety
Inspect trees and large shrubs for hazard conditions.
- No trees showing signs of structural failure risk (dead limbs, cracks, decay, lean)?
- No tree limbs overhanging or contacting building, roof, or utility lines?
- Trees and shrubs maintain minimum clearance from walkways and structures?
- No surface roots creating trip hazards on walkways or in turf areas?
- Shrubs trimmed to maintain adequate sightlines and not blocking signage or lighting?
- Mulch beds in good condition with adequate depth (2-3 inches) and not against building?
Turf and Ground Conditions
Assess lawn, turf, and ground cover conditions.
- Turf areas without significant bare spots, erosion, or weed infestation?
- Turf mowed to appropriate height and edges trimmed?
- No persistent standing water in turf areas indicating drainage problem?
- Grounds free of litter, debris, and unauthorized dumping?
- No abandoned furniture, appliances, or resident property on grounds?
Walkways and Hardscape
Inspect walkways, steps, and paved areas for hazards.
- All walkways and sidewalks free of trip hazards (cracks, heaving, settling)?
- All exterior steps in good condition with proper risers and handrails?
- ADA accessible routes maintained and unobstructed?
- Community patio and seating areas clean and free of hazards?
- No ice or snow accumulation on walkways (winter/shoulder season)?
Exterior Lighting and Security
Verify all exterior lighting is operational.
- All exterior lights (parking, walkways, building mounted) operational?
- Motion-activated security lights triggering properly?
- Property entry signage illuminated?
- Building address numbers clearly visible and illuminated at night?
Irrigation and Documentation
Check irrigation system and document grounds inspection.
- Irrigation system operating without visible breaks, leaks, or heads spraying incorrectly?
- Irrigation schedule adjusted for current season?
- Overall curb appeal acceptable (would impress a prospective resident)?
- Any issues communicated to landscaping contractor for follow-up?
- Grounds inspection logged in property management system?
- Seasonal grounds tasks scheduled (fertilization, aeration, pre-emergent, winterization)?
- Any hazard trees identified referred to certified arborist for professional assessment?
- Next monthly grounds inspection scheduled?
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Why Use This Apartment Complex Grounds and Landscaping Monthly Inspection Checklist?
This apartment complex grounds and landscaping monthly inspection checklist helps property management teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for property manager / groundskeeper / leasing consultant professionals, this checklist covers 28 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: monthly.
Ensures compliance with ICC International Property Maintenance Code Section 302 (Exterior Property), ANSI A300 Tree Care Standards, OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1054 (Tree Trimming), ADA Accessibility Guidelines (Accessible Routes), Local Ordinance Landscape and Tree Requirements, EPA WaterSense Irrigation Guidelines, UK Occupiers Liability Acts 1957 and 1984, Australia Work Health and Safety Act 2011. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Apartment Complex Grounds and Landscaping Monthly Inspection Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 28 inspection items across 5 sections: Trees and Vegetation Safety, Turf and Ground Conditions, Walkways and Hardscape, Exterior Lighting and Security, Irrigation and Documentation. It is designed for property management operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed monthly. Each completion takes approximately 45-60 minutes.
Who should use this Apartment Complex Grounds and Landscaping Monthly Inspection Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Property Manager / Groundskeeper / Leasing Consultant professionals in the property management industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.