Move-In Checklist
A move-in checklist is a document landlords use to evaluate the damage to an apartment or condo before a new renter moves in. This document is used to hold tenants accountable for damage and mitigate risks. Without a formal inspection checklist, landlords and renters are both at risk for property damage disputes.
Whether you're a renter or landlord, a move-in checklist is a valuable tool to help you achieve a seamless move-in process. Without a formal checklist, you might have communication problems, legal issues, or safety risks.
Need help creating a move-in checklist? Here's what landlords and tenants need to stay protected when renting.
Why You Need a Move-In Checklist
Think of the move-in inspection checklist as an agreement between renters and tenants. This document is designed to protect both parties, ensuring there's no maintenance that needs to be done before or after someone moves out.
Landlords typically use an apartment move-in checklist to decide if they need to keep the deposit at the end of a lease. A checklist also protects renters from any damage disputes or excessive charges. Some other benefits of a move-in inspection checklist include:
- Stay compliant with safety regulations
- Improves landlord and renter communication
- Keeps both parties accountable
- Identifies unit-specific repairs that need to be completed
- Streamlines the move-in and move-out process
- Works as a property history record
Move-In Inspection Checklist: Ensuring a Smooth Transition
A formal process should be set in place for the inspection to achieve a smooth inspection before a new tenant moves in.
The inspection is typically done before a new tenant moves into the home, typically a few days prior to move-in day, ensuring this will give the landlord enough time to make any repairs, upgrades, or changes that need to be done before you move in.
At the end of the inspection, both parties must sign and date the checklist. During this time, renters should ask any questions or address any concerns they may have, as this is the best way to establish clear communication and set expectations between both parties.
Apartment Move-In Checklist: Essentials for Renters
The day you move into a new place, you'll want to take some time to inspect the property thoroughly, as doing so will keep you protected and ensure the previous tenants cause no damage.
Here's a quick apartment move-in checklist you can use to plan accordingly:
- Check walls, ceiling, and floors for cracks and damage
- Test all appliances
- Take photos
- Inspect the Kitchen
- Inspect the Bedrooms
- Inspect the Bathrooms
- Check smoke detectors
- Test and try all light fixtures
- Open and close the windows
- Inspect outlets and switches
Other Move-in Day Tasks:
- Transfer utilities to your name
- Identify emergency exits in the apartment building
- Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
- Get all necessary keys from a landlord (garage, mail, front door)
- Do a quick walk through the backyard and front yard
The landlord should have a tenant move-in checklist for you to use while you inspect the property. Ensure everything is filled out and all damage is noted in the checklist to ensure you can keep your deposit at the end of your lease and protect yourself from damage claims.
Tenant Move-In Checklist: Know Your Responsibilities
If you're renting a condo or a house from someone who owns a property, there are a few additional steps you'll need to take to ensure you're protected. Some steps to add to your checklist include:
- Read the leasing agreement thoroughly and ask questions if something is unclear
- Check for additional fees and unnecessary charges
- Document and take photos of everything during the move-in
- Discuss maintenance responsibilities
- Ask for a copy of the inspection move-in checklist for your records
- Ask about house rules
- Sign up for renters insurance
While renting from an independent landlord can provide flexibility, you might be required to take on more responsibility. There might also not be a formal inspection process or lease agreement, which can lead to miscommunication.
Move-In Checklist for Landlords
As a landlord, you'll want to protect yourself against disputes and identify maintenance issues before the new tenant moves in. When creating a checklist, you'll want to make an inventory list of all appliances and assess the property's condition. Here's a template you can use to create a move-in checklist for landlords:
Kitchen
- Outlets and Switches
- Appliances
- Countertops
- Windows
- Light Fixtures
- Walls and Ceilings
Bedrooms
- Outlets and Switches
- Shower
- Toilet
- Sink
- Countertops
- Windows
- Light Fixtures
- Walls and Ceilings
Bathrooms
- Outlets and Switches
- Countertops
- Windows
- Light Fixtures
- Walls and Ceilings
Other
- Hallways
- Garage
- Air Vents
- Smoke Detector
- Back Yard
- Front Yard
Your list should have a check-in for move-in and move-out day so you can assess for any tenant-related damage. This is the best way to create a property history record you can reference regularly.
Tips for a Stress-Free Move-In Day
Moving can be stressful for both parties involved. Here are some quick tips tenants and renters can use to prepare for the big day:
- Hire a professional moving company to help with the heavy lifting
- Declutter before you relocate
- Hire professional cleaners to save time
- Use a moving checklist to stay organized
Here are some move-in day tips for landlords:
- Make sure all responsibilities are clearly communicated
- Outline the needs and expectations for repairs, cleaning, and utilities
- Schedule a walk-through with the new tenants
- Ensure the security deposit is paid before the move-in day
Final Thoughts on Your Move-In Checklist
A move-in inspection checklist is an invaluable tool for both parties involved. This checklist can provide peace of mind and improve communication. It also works as a reminder of what parts of an apartment, condo, or home need to be inspected before and after a move-out.
Planning a move? North American Van Lines is here to help you plan and prepare so you can focus on ensuring your move-in inspection checklist is as accurate as possible.
