Templates / Move-In / Move-Out Inspection Checklist
Free Move-In / Move-Out Inspection Checklist Template (PDF, Word, Excel)
Room-by-room condition at move-in and move-out — the record that settles a security deposit. Print it, fill it in on a computer, or use the filled-in example to see what a complete one looks like.
No sign-up. See a filled-in example (PDF).
What a move-in / move-out inspection checklist should include
- Address, unit, names of tenant and landlord, move-in and move-out dates
- Every room, item by item — walls, floors, windows, doors, fixtures, appliances
- Condition in specific words: 'burn mark 1" left of stove', not 'fair'
- Existing damage with a photo number next to it
- Smoke and CO detectors tested
- Keys, fobs and remotes handed over and returned
- Meter readings
- Both signatures and dates at move-in — and again at move-out
- Dated photos stored where both sides can get them
- Many states require a move-in condition report or give tenants a deadline to return one — check your state's rules
Or do it on your phone in two minutes
Rental Inspection: Move In/Out is an iPhone app that fills in this same document and sends the PDF.
- Room-by-room checklist with photos
- Both sides sign on the phone
- One dated PDF for the deposit
Questions
What is a move-in inspection checklist?
A room-by-room record of the rental's condition on the day the tenant moves in, signed by both sides. At move-out the same list is filled in again; the difference is what the deposit can be charged for.
Who fills it out — tenant or landlord?
Ideally both together during a walkthrough. If you walk it alone, send the completed checklist and photos to the other side the same day so the date can't be disputed.
Can a landlord deduct for normal wear and tear?
Generally no. Deductions are for damage beyond normal wear and tear and for unpaid rent; what counts as normal wear differs by state. A dated move-in record is the evidence either way.
How many photos should I take?
At least one wide photo per room and a close-up of every existing defect. Photos with the date embedded (or sent by email the same day) are much harder to dispute.
Is this move-in move-out checklist free?
Yes — PDF, Word and Excel, no sign-up.
Security deposit rules by state
Return deadlines, deposit limits and move-in inspection rules from each state’s statute: Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Washington — or compare them side by side.
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