HOME AND NEIGHBORHOODS · 3 MIN
Move-in inspection: protect your deposit
In short
Photograph and list every problem on day one, send it to the landlord, and do the same when you leave.
When you move out, the landlord may keep part of your security deposit for damage. Without proof, it is your word against theirs. Spend one hour on move-in day and save hundreds of dollars.
On move-in day, before unpacking
1
Ask for a move-in checklist (also called condition report or inventory form). Many landlords give one; some states require it.
2
Walk through each room with your phone.
3
Take a video of every room, slowly, and photos of every problem, close and far.
4
Check: walls (holes, marks), floors and carpet (stains, burns), doors and locks, windows and screens, blinds, kitchen cabinets, inside the oven and fridge, sinks and toilets (leaks, cracks), bathtub, lights, outlets, smoke detectors, air conditioning and heat.
5
Run every tap and flush every toilet. Turn on the stove burners, oven, dishwasher and garbage disposal.
6
Write each problem on the checklist: "Bedroom 1: carpet stain near door, about 6 inches."
7
Sign and date it, keep a copy, and email it with photos to the landlord or office the same week. Ask them to reply to confirm.
Also ask for
Repairs for anything that does not work (submit maintenance requests).
How many keys and fobs you got. Write it down.
Keep it safe
Save the photos and checklist in a cloud folder named with your address and date. You will need them in a year or more.
When you move out
1
Clean well, including the oven, fridge, bathroom and floors.
2
Fix small things you caused, like nail holes, if the lease allows.
3
Take the same photos and video again.
4
Ask for a walk-through with the landlord.
5
Return all keys and fobs and get a receipt.
6
Give your forwarding address in writing so they can send your deposit and the list of deductions.
Normal wear and tear (small marks, carpet worn by normal walking, faded paint) is usually not something the landlord can charge for. Real damage (holes, pet stains, broken items) is. The deadline to return the deposit differs by state.
Common mistakes
Waiting a week, after your furniture hides the marks.
Only photographing. A written list signed by both sides is stronger.
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