The move-in inspection checklist is a crucial tool for both tenants and landlords. This checklist, provided by the team at ApartmentHomeLiving.com, helps document the condition of an apartment at the time of move-in. It is important to complete this form carefully to protect yourself and your security deposit when you eventually move out.
Downloadable PDF: https://www.apartmenthomeliving.com/rental-tools/pdf/rental-inspection-checklist.pdf
How to Use the Checklist
The checklist is organized by room and area, including the front porch, entrance, living room, dining room, kitchen, bathrooms, bedrooms, back porch, and garage. It also includes sections for mechanical systems like the A/C, furnace, and thermostat. When you move in, you should go through each section and note the condition of every item. The form provides a key with abbreviations to help you describe any issues you find.
Key Abbreviations:
- R: Repair Needed
- S: Scratched Surface
- MD: Minor Damage
- P: Painting Needed
- REP: Replacement Needed
- SD: Serious Damage
- M: Missing
Best Practices for Renters
- Be Thorough: Carefully inspect every part of the apartment listed on the checklist, from light bulbs and walls to appliances like the refrigerator and stove. Don't forget to check less obvious items like the number of keys you received and the condition of screens, blinds, and shades.
- Document with Photos: The checklist has a space to indicate whether a photo record was created. Taking time-stamped photos or videos can serve as powerful evidence of the apartment's condition when you moved in.
- Sign and Date Everything: Ensure that both you and your landlord or agent sign and date the checklist at move-in. Keep a copy for your records.
- Pre-Move-Out Inspection: The checklist also includes columns for an optional pre-move-out inspection and a final move-out inspection. Using the pre-move-out section can help you identify any issues that need to be addressed before the final inspection, giving you a chance to make repairs and avoid potential deductions from your security deposit.
By following these steps, you can effectively use the ApartmentHomeLiving.com inspection checklist to ensure a smooth and fair move-in and move-out process.
