Before new tenants start unpacking their boxes and settling into their new rental property, there is one very important document that needs to be completed, the move-in checklist. A move-in checklist, also called an apartment inspection checklist or a rental walkthrough checklist, is a document that allows the landlord and the tenant to state the current condition of the property and take note of any damages beyond normal wear and tear.
When written correctly, the checklist offers security to both tenants and landlords. As a tenant, it ensures that you won’t be charged for any damages or appliance failures you didn’t cause. As a landlord, the document can be used to prove that certain damages were done by the previous tenant and help keep the property in good condition. Whether you are renting in Louisville, KY, or a landlord in Phoenix, AZ, it’s important that you understand what a move-in checklist is and how to complete it.
Why do I need a move-in checklist?
For landlords:
The move-in checklist is a document landlords should provide to new tenants before they move into their new apartment. This checklist protects landlords and holds tenants responsible for any damages to the unit beyond the normal wear and tear. Making note of pre-existing damage can help minimize disputes between landlords and tenant-related to returning the security deposit.
For tenants:
The move-in checklist provides the same protection to a new tenant. It helps tenants evaluate and document the property’s condition before moving in. It ensures that landlords and property managers keep the units in good condition and helps hold previous tenants accountable for any damage they caused while living in the space. The checklist may also serve as a written record if there is ever a legal dispute in the future.
When a tenant is filling out the document they should remember to:
- Thoroughly assess the rental property’s condition and request repairs for any…