The landlord may offer to make certain repairs after you move into the unit, which can be problematic. If your landlord drags their feet on addressing serious problems, such as building code violations, you should think twice before renting the unit at all. This will make it hard for the landlord to challenge your description of any problems with the apartment if you eventually need to sue them.Īny major issues that you identify should be fixed before you move into the unit. You should take two sets of photos and provide your landlord with one set, which should be signed and dated. This will provide clear evidence of pre-existing problems with the unit and allow you to compare its condition when you move in with its condition when you move out. If you are renting a furnished unit, you should inspect the furniture carefully as well.Īn important way to document the condition of the unit before moving in is to take photos or videos of any issues. You should review not only the basic structural features but also areas of the apartment such as heating, light and ventilation, electricity, plumbing, trash and garbage disposal, and security and safety issues, such as locks, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers. Try to note any problems in as much detail as possible, while marking “OK” next to areas of the apartment that are in an acceptable condition. The friend can later serve as a witness to verify your observations if a dispute arises. Ideally, the landlord and you will fill out the checklist together, but otherwise you can complete it on your own and perhaps ask a friend to join you. (When you move out, you should do something similar to protect your right to get your security deposit returned.) Some states require the use of a “Landlord - Tenant Checklist” by law, but it is prudent even if it is not technically required. You should put together a checklist that helps you identify any issues with dirt, mold, vermin, or other types of damage. This can help avert or minimize disputes with your landlord in the future about the condition of the property, as well as providing you with a safer, more pleasant place to live. Use the free rental inspection checklist we’ve provided below to make sure you cover all your bases or click below to download a printable, PDF version.Before you sign a lease for your new rental unit, you should make sure to carefully inspect the unit for any issues. If there’s even the slightest thing wrong with your light fixtures, balcony railing, or the inside of your oven, make sure you document it. What’s in a rental walkthrough checklist?Įverything from the floorboard condition to the shower drain should be on your rental inspection checklist. In fact, it’s most helpful when attempting to get your security deposit back since you have documentation of everything that was damaged before you became the tenant. Using a rental walkthrough checklist is the best way to keep track of the state of the floorboards, walls, doors, locks, and appliances in every room in the home or apartment.Ī rental inspection checklist will also come in handy when it comes time to move out. Once you move in, you’re liable for any damages that occur in the rental, so it’s important to note what was already damage or not working before you’re held responsible. ![]() ![]() Why use a rental inspection checklist?Ī rental inspection checklist offers a streamlined way to document the condition of an apartment before moving in. Among other things, you’ll want to go through a rental inspection checklist to check for any damages, cracks, scratches, and non-working appliances. Signed a lease and ready to move in? Congrats! Before you get too cozy in your new place, it’s important to look around and make sure you know the condition of your rental before moving in completely.
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