Glossary Term
A move-in inspection is a walkthrough of the rental unit at or before move-in to document its condition. It usually involves a checklist or report that both tenant and landlord can sign. This record is used later to determine what is normal wear and tear versus tenant damage when the tenant moves out.
In short
A move-in inspection is a walkthrough of the rental unit at or before move-in to document its condition. It usually involves a checklist or report that both tenant and landlord can sign. This record is used later to determine what is normal wear and tear versus tenant damage when the tenant moves out.
Without a move-in inspection, landlords may blame you for pre-existing damage and deduct from your security deposit. A signed checklist and photos protect you and support disputes over deductions.
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In some states, landlords must provide a checklist or opportunity for inspection. Even when not required, doing one protects both parties and is strongly recommended for tenants.
Do your own: take detailed photos and video, write a condition report, and send it to the landlord. Keep copies. This still gives you evidence for later deposit disputes.
You can document it and send it to the landlord as soon as you find it. The sooner you do, the stronger the argument that it was pre-existing. Add it to your records even if the move-in checklist is already signed.
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