Why This Inspection Matters Before You Pay

The moment you hand over a security deposit, the clock starts ticking. When you eventually move out, your landlord will compare the unit's condition at that point to its condition when you moved in. If you never documented pre-existing damage, you may find yourself paying for problems you didn't cause.

A move-in inspection — also called a walk-through inspection or move-in condition report — is a room-by-room written record of the unit's state before you bring in a single piece of furniture. It's one of the most powerful tools a renter has, and most first-timers skip it entirely.

To understand exactly what landlords are and aren't allowed to deduct from your deposit later, see our guide to security deposit rules. And when move-out day eventually comes, the moving-out checklist will help you leave on solid footing.

Don't Wait Until After You Move In

Many renters plan to do the inspection "once things settle down" — by then, a landlord may argue that damage found later was caused during your move-in day itself. Conduct the inspection before or during the handover of keys, not after furniture arrives. Some states have a legally defined window (often 24–72 hours) for submitting an inspection form, so check your lease and your state's tenant-protection laws.

What You Need Before You Start

Gather your tools before you walk in. The inspection takes 30–60 minutes done properly — rushing it defeats the purpose.

Required

Smartphone with a working camera

Take timestamped photos and short videos of every defect you find during the inspection.

Required

Written move-in condition form

A room-by-room form (from your landlord, a state tenant-rights site, or written yourself) to record the condition of each surface, fixture, and appliance.

Required

Flashlight or phone torch

Illuminate dark corners, under sinks, and inside closets where damage is easy to miss.

Required

Pen and notepad

Record specific notes — location, size, and description — next to each item on the form.

Optional

Tape measure

Measure significant damage (large stains, holes) so the record is precise and harder to dispute.

The Room-by-Room Checklist

Work through each group systematically. Check the item, note its condition in writing ("small paint chip, 2 inches, near light switch"), and photograph it. If something is in perfect shape, note that too — a blank form looks like you didn't bother.

Walls, Ceilings & Floors

Check all walls for scuffs, holes, stains, or uneven paint patches, and note their exact location. Must
Inspect the ceiling for water stains, cracks, or mold — signs of a past or active leak. Must
Test flooring for scratches, stains, loose tiles, warped wood, or worn carpet across the entire surface. Must
Check baseboards and trim for chips, cracks, or missing sections. Should

Doors, Windows & Locks

Open and close every door to confirm it latches properly and swings without scraping the floor. Must
Test all window locks — they must fully engage — and check for broken panes or cracked seals. Must
Verify that all entry locks (deadbolt and knob) operate smoothly with the keys provided. Must
Inspect window screens for tears or missing screens that could let in insects. Should

Kitchen

Turn on every burner and the oven to confirm they heat up; note any that don't ignite or maintain temperature. Must
Run the faucet, check under the sink for moisture or staining, and test the garbage disposal if present. Must
Open every cabinet and drawer to check for damage, pests, or strong odors. Must
Check refrigerator and dishwasher seals and run a short dishwasher cycle if possible. Should

Bathroom(s)

Flush each toilet and confirm it refills fully and doesn't run continuously. Must
Run the shower and both sink taps on full pressure; note any slow drains or discoloration. Must
Inspect caulk and grout around the tub, shower, and sink for cracks, mold, or missing sections. Must
Test the exhaust fan — a working fan is essential for moisture control and mold prevention. Should

Electrical, Plumbing & HVAC

Test every light switch and outlet using a phone charger or a small plug-in lamp. Must
Locate the breaker box and confirm it's labeled, accessible, and has no tripped or missing breakers. Must
Run the heating and cooling system briefly in each mode to confirm both function. Must
Confirm smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are present, mounted, and respond when tested. Must

Shared Spaces & Exterior (if applicable)

Photograph any damage in hallways, parking spots, storage units, or outdoor areas assigned to your unit. Should
Test any mailbox keys, garage fobs, or building entry codes provided at move-in. Must
Note the condition of any appliances or furniture included with the unit. Should
Document the presence and condition of any window coverings, shelving, or fixtures listed in your lease. Nice to have

Your Signature Is Your Acknowledgment

If your landlord provides a pre-filled move-in condition form, do not sign it until you have personally verified every item on it. A signature is your agreement that the form is accurate. Cross out or add notes to any item that doesn't match what you observe, and keep a signed copy for your own records.

Once you've completed the checklist, email a copy to your landlord the same day and request written confirmation that they received it. This creates a timestamped paper trail. For a deeper look at the mistakes that cost renters their deposits, see why renters lose their deposit.