Move-in inspection checklist

Do this before you unpack a single box. Anything you document now can't be blamed on you when you move out. Take dated photos, note what's worn or broken, and send the list to your landlord the same day.

Before you start

• Wait to unpack until the inspection is doneBoxes and furniture hide floors and walls.
• Charge your phone and turn on photo timestampsDated photos are your strongest record.
• Ask whether your landlord has a move-in formIf they do, fill theirs out too and keep a copy.

Every room

• Walls and ceilingsHoles, cracks, stains, scuffs, peeling paint.
• Floors and carpetScratches, stains, burns, loose tiles, worn spots.
• Doors and locksEvery door opens, closes and locks; keys work.
• Windows and screensOpen, close and lock; no cracked glass or torn screens.
• Lights and outletsTest every switch and outlet; a phone charger works as a tester.
• Blinds and curtain rodsMissing or broken slats are easy to be charged for later.

Kitchen

• Fridge and freezerCold, clean, no smells; shelves and drawers intact.
• Stove and ovenEvery burner lights or heats; oven heats.
• DishwasherRun a short cycle and check for leaks.
• Sink and garbage disposalWater pressure, hot water, no drips under the sink.
• Cabinets and countersDoors hang straight; chips, burns or stains on counters.

Bathroom

• ToiletFlushes fully, doesn't run, isn't loose at the base.
• Shower and tubHot water, drains clear, grout and caulk intact, no mold.
• Sink and vanityDrips, drain speed, cabinet damage underneath.
• Exhaust fanTurns on and pulls air.

Safety and systems

• Smoke and carbon monoxide alarmsPress test on each one; note any missing.
• Heating and air conditioningRun both for a few minutes.
• Water heaterLook for rust or pooling water around the base.
• Breaker panel and water shutoffFind both now so you can act fast later.

Send it the same day

• Put every issue in one list with photosRoom, what's wrong, photo reference.
• Email it to your landlord or property managerEmail gives you a dated record of what you reported.
• Ask for anything unsafe to be repairedKeep their reply with your lease.
• Keep a copy until your deposit is returnedSecurity deposit rules and deadlines vary by state; check your lease and local rules.