checklist for landlords when tenant moves in

The landlord cannot charge the tenant to replace the carpet or to repaint just because it does not look as new as when the tenant moved in. Damage may be caused by the tenant's negligence, abuse, or carelessness.įor example, it is generally expected that many homes may require new flooring and new paint every few years or more depending on use and care. Landlords can charge tenants for damage, but not for normal wear that results from aging naturally and normal use over time. In addition to meeting your legal requirements, tenants may want to make arrangements to be present or for pets to be elsewhere. This informs the tenant when workers or the landlord will enter to make the repair. When a landlord schedules a repair, they may make a Landlord's Notice to Enter. In addition to making communication easier, a written request documents the landlord's notification. In addition to the inspection checklist, the landlord may have a written procedure, such as submitting a Tenant Repair Request, for how the tenant can report problems. You may be held liable for anything you do not document.

Your signature confirms the condition of the unit or home. If you are the tenant, only sign off on the move-in checklist after a thorough walk-through. Both may want to photograph the unit at various times: the landlord before the tenant has access, and the tenant before moving their belongings in.

Document even minor problems as these may become larger over time or due to normal wear and tear.īoth the tenant and landlord want the rental home in overall good condition.

Test blinds or curtains and check for missing or bent slats.

Look for water damage, such as floor discoloration near sinks or appliances that use water.

Run appliances like washers, dryers, stove burners, garbage disposals, and air conditioners.

Check inspection dates on fire extinguishers.

Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.

Make sure all switches work, including light fixtures, ceiling fans, garbage disposal, and electrical outlet switches.

Check faucets for water pressure, and test the hot water.

Inspect the flooring, walls, and ceilings for holes, scratches, wear, and blemishes.

Landlords rely on the move-in inspection to spot problems left by the previous tenant, to assess repairs, and to make sure the unit is up to code, the lease, and the tenant's standards.

Tenants may check for maintenance issues that may affect their use and enjoyment of the rental unit. What to check while inspecting a rental property?Ī tenant's main concern when moving in is documenting problems that a landlord could claim the tenant caused. It also saves the property manager from having to ask tenants for it, if they do not complete it on time. This encourages the tenant to complete the walk-through. Many leases state that if the tenant does not return the inspection document to the landlord after a certain time, it means that there is no damage. You may include the Renter's Inspection Worksheet in your Lease Agreement. This can protect both tenants and landlords at move-out or other times. It also gives the landlord the tenant's acknowledgment of what was in good condition at move-in. With a Renter's Inspection Worksheet, tenants may document problems the landlord might have missed. Landlords may ask tenants to complete a walk-through checklist before the tenant moves in or shortly afterwards. A move-in walk-through is a chance for a new tenant to inspect a rental property.

Checklist for landlords when tenant moves in