What to Do If You Can’t Attend a Rental Inspection in Australia

When you're applying for a rental property in Australia, attending the inspection is often considered a must. Agents want to see that you're serious, responsible, and aware of the property’s condition before you apply.

But what if you simply can’t be there? Maybe you’re overseas, still finalising your visa, or working full-time and can’t get to a midweek inspection. If this sounds like you, don’t stress. You’re not alone, and there are still options available.

Why Rental Inspections in Australia Matter

In competitive suburbs like CBD area, agents often receive dozens of applications per property. Most expect that tenants have inspected the home before applying. This helps reduce risk because they know you're not going to back out due to something you would have noticed in person.

If you apply without inspecting or arranging an alternative, your application may not even be considered. It’s not personal, it’s just how the rental process works in Australia.

If you’re unfamiliar with the steps, we’ve broken them down in our guide What Happens After You Apply for a Rental in Australia.

Common Reasons You Can’t Attend

• You’re still overseas waiting on your student visa

• You’ve just arrived and don’t know the city yet

• You’re working during inspection times

• The inspection is scheduled on short notice

• You missed the only viewing and no private tours are available

  
  

These are common and completely understandable. Fortunately, there are still ways to keep your application strong.

Option 1: Request a Virtual Tour (if available)

Some agents offer video walk-throughs or 3D tours, especially for newer or furnished properties. You can ask:

“Hi, I’m unable to attend in person. Is there a virtual tour or video available?”

This can be helpful for getting a general sense of the property. However, virtual tours aren’t always available, especially in fast-moving rental markets like CBD area. And even when they are, they may not show everything you’d want to check in person, such as minor damage, natural lighting, or street noise.

If a tour is provided, it’s a useful starting point. Just keep in mind it’s often best combined with local knowledge or further checks where possible

Option 2: Send a Trusted Person on Your Behalf

If you have a friend or relative in Australia, you can ask them to attend the inspection for you. They can walk through the property, speak with the agent, and share photos or videos afterward.

This can work well if your contact knows what to look for and feels confident attending inspections. That said, not everyone is familiar with the rental process in Australia. Small but important details, like checking for signs of mould or asking the right questions, can sometimes be overlooked.

Still, this option is far better than not inspecting at all and is worth considering if someone you trust is available.

Option 3: Find My Home Can Attend the Inspection for You

If you’ve engaged Find My Home, the team can attend inspections on your behalf. This includes:

• Confirming times with the agent

• Visiting the property in person

• Recording a detailed video walkthrough

• Sharing insights about competition, quality, and next steps

  
  

This allows you to move forward without needing to be physically present. Clients have successfully secured properties in CBD area and other highly competitive areas, even when they were overseas or unavailable.

If you're short on time, stuck overseas, or simply unsure what to do, Find My Home can manage the inspection process for you.

These are common and completely understandable. Fortunately, there are still ways to keep your application strong.

And if you’re new to renting in Australia, it helps to know what agents are really looking for.

Check out Do You Need Rental References to Get Approved? to learn what matters most and why going solo can be tough.

Why This Matters

A missed inspection can mean a missed opportunity. Many applications are declined simply because the agent believes the applicant hasn't viewed the home or won’t follow through.

And if you’re new to renting in Australia, it helps to know what agents are really looking for. Check out Do You Need Rental References to Get Approved? to learn what matters most and why going solo can be tough.

Final Thought

We understand that life doesn’t always align with Australia's rental schedule. Whether you're still abroad, juggling casual shifts, or just trying to figure out where to live, Find My Home can help.

With over 200 tenants approved and inspections attended through 50+ real estate agencies, the service ensures you never miss a rental opportunity, even if you can’t be there in person.

Can’t attend an inspection? Find My Home can go for you. Learn more here.