Summary

28 items · 45–90 minutes

Why This Walkthrough Matters

Your security deposit is at risk the moment you sign a lease — not when you move out. Landlords are generally permitted to deduct from your deposit for damage beyond normal wear and tear, but the burden of proving what was already damaged when you arrived falls largely on you. Without a documented baseline, you have almost no leverage in a dispute.

A move-in inspection checklist creates a timestamped, room-by-room record that separates your responsibility from what came before you. If you're new to renting, our plain-language guide to leases and deposits explains how these protections fit into the broader rental process.

Complete this walkthrough before you move any furniture in — ideally with your landlord or property manager present, or on camera if they can't be there. Once you're done, pair this checklist with thorough photo and video documentation. For guidance on that process, see how renters can document their home to avoid deposit disputes.

Required

Smartphone or Digital Camera

Capture timestamped photos and video of every room and any pre-existing damage before moving in.

Required

Printed or Digital Inspection Checklist

Provides a structured, room-by-room framework so nothing is missed during the walkthrough.

Optional

Outlet Tester

A simple plug-in device that verifies whether electrical outlets are properly wired and functional.

Required

Email or Certified Mail

Sends your completed inspection report to your landlord with a date-stamped record of delivery.

Room-by-Room Inspection Checklist

Work through every room in order. Note the condition of each item using a simple scale — Good, Fair (minor wear), or Damaged — and describe any damage briefly in writing. Photograph everything flagged as Fair or Damaged.

Preparation Before You Walk In

Bring your checklist, a pen, and a fully charged phone or camera for photos and video. Must
Schedule the walkthrough before any furniture or boxes enter the unit. Must
Request that your landlord or property manager be present so both parties can sign off. Should
Bring a copy of any move-in inspection form provided by your landlord to compare against your own notes. Should

Entryway & Common Areas

Test all entry door locks, deadbolts, and chain locks to confirm they function smoothly. Must
Inspect the front door frame and threshold for cracks, gaps, or signs of forced entry. Must
Check hallway walls for holes, scuffs, or stains and note their location specifically. Must
Test all light switches and overhead fixtures in shared spaces. Must

Kitchen

Turn on all stove burners and oven elements to verify they heat properly. Must
Run the refrigerator and check that both the fridge and freezer compartments reach appropriate temperatures. Must
Run water at the sink and check under the cabinet for drips, water stains, or soft spots indicating past leaks. Must
Inspect countertops, cabinet doors, and drawer slides for chips, cracks, or damage. Should
Run the dishwasher through a short cycle if one is present and note any leaks or error codes. Should
Check that the exhaust fan or range hood works and note any grease buildup you didn't cause. Nice to have

Bathroom(s)

Flush the toilet and confirm it refills properly without running continuously. Must
Run the shower and tub, checking water pressure, drainage speed, and caulk condition around the surround. Must
Check under the sink for active leaks, water stains, or mold and document any findings. Must
Inspect tile grout for cracks, missing sections, or mold that predates your tenancy. Should
Confirm the exhaust fan operates — a working fan is important for moisture control. Should

Bedrooms & Living Spaces

Inspect all walls and ceilings for holes, stains, cracks, or water damage marks. Must
Open and close every window to confirm they open, lock, and have intact screens. Must
Test every electrical outlet with a phone charger or outlet tester. Must
Check closet interiors including walls, floors, and door hardware. Should
Examine flooring across the entire room — look for scratches, stains, lifted corners, or soft spots. Must

Safety Devices & Final Steps

Test every smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector in the unit to confirm they are functional. Must
Locate the main water shutoff valve and electrical breaker panel and note their condition. Should
Submit your completed checklist to your landlord in writing within 24–48 hours of your walkthrough. Must
Request written acknowledgment or a co-signed copy of the inspection report for your records. Must

Don't Skip the Minor Damage

Small scuffs, nail holes, and worn caulk may seem insignificant, but they are among the most common sources of deposit disputes. Document even cosmetic issues that seem trivial — "normal wear and tear" is interpreted differently by different landlords, and having a record puts you in a much stronger position. When in doubt, photograph it and note it.

Once you've completed the walkthrough, send a copy of your notes to your landlord via email so you have a date-stamped record. Good written habits from the start make a real difference — communicating with your landlord in writing is one of the most underrated habits a renter can build.

Get Your Report Acknowledged in Writing

Completing an inspection checklist only protects you if your landlord has a copy. Email it to them so the date is automatically recorded. If they offer a co-signed form, request your own copy immediately. An unacknowledged checklist sitting only on your phone is far harder to rely on if a dispute reaches a small claims court or mediation.

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