On the other hand, common damages that tenants are held accountable for include: Scuff marks or worn patches on linoleum.

Some common examples of normal wear-and-tear include: That’s why it may be extremely helpful to include these distinctions in the lease agreement so that there are no misunderstandings that lead to disputes over withholding the security deposit over damages. Damageĭetermining what is normal wear-and-tear versus what counts as damage can be tricky. At the bottom of the document, the checklist should provide a section for all parties involved to sign and date their approval of the reported conditions on the form. Without both parties signing off on the document, it is rendered essentially useless. Some lists also provide a line for the “cost for correction/repair” so that both parties understand any deductions made from the security deposit. The Move-in/Move-out Checklist should provide a line for each of these items so that both the tenant and the landlord can make the necessary notes to indicate the condition of each. living room, kitchen, bedroom, bathroom) and have their own lists of items for inspection, which can range from walls, fire alarms, and appliances to handrails, electrical outlets, and closets. It is commonly broken down by rooms and areas of the living space (i.e. This is obviously the most important section and can be arranged in a variety of ways. Move-in/Move-out Checklists should also include the names of the renters, as well as their move-in/move-out dates. The form should indicate the address, unit number, and other basic information about the property in question. Not only can it serve as written documentation in the event of a legal dispute between the tenant and the landlord, it holds the respective party accountable for the damages incurred before and during the lease.Įvery landlord’s checklist can look different, but most commonly include the following information: Property Description Regardless, having a Move-in/Move-out Checklist can be extremely beneficial. Some variation of this checklist is required by law in 17 states - including Arizona, Georgia, Hawaii, Nevada, and Washington - with some states only requiring it if a security deposit is collected. It also sets an expectation for the tenant when they move out to restore the unit to its former condition or pay for necessary repairs.

This allows both parties to be on the same page while making sure that those existing damages are not reflected in the tenant’s security deposit when they move out. At the start date, both parties should carefully examine every wall, appliance, and fixture to note any existing damage or needed repairs. HOWEVER – without pictures, either the tenant or landlord may have a hard time proving it in court.A Move-in/Move-out Checklist is a document that allows the landlord and the tenant to sign off on the condition of the unit at the start and end of the lease. If the landlord / tenant can both sign the form then there is meeting of minds at that time. This form or checklist will serve as your notes about the condition of the unit when you moved in and when you move out. It will help you should you need to charge from the security deposit for damages beyond normal wear and tear. The form will help you document the unit when the moves in and out. Like the tenant MOVE IN / MOVE OUT Checklist is a great tool to use to document your rental unit. Make notes, make a copy for yourself (scan, take picture etc) and save it. Our popular MOVE IN / MOVE OUT Checklist is a great tool to use to document your rental unit. MOVE IN-OUT CHECKLIST Landlords and Tenants

Landlord checklist for tenant move out