How to Fill Out a Move-In Checklist

Video Transcript

"Hello, my name is Penny Smith. I'd like to talk to you today about how to fill out a move-in checklist on a home that you are going to rent, or an apartment that you're going to rent. Most landlords will provide a move-in checklist that you will be required to fill out at the time in which you decide to leave the property. I highly recommend that you go through each and every single item. Look at it visually. If there's any defects in that property, take a picture of it. Attach it to that move-in checklist. Print it out, attach it to it. That is your documentation on the property and the condition in which you moved in to that property. If you do not do that, and you do not go through that move-in checklist, you could be held responsible for property that is damaged before you moved in. If you have no proof to show that it was damaged before you moved in, then you could be held accountable for it. For instance if there's a hole in the bathroom door from a doorstop, or if there is scratches on the counters, or if there is screens missing on the house, you can be required, and that replacement of those items or repair of those items could come out of your deposit. So I highly recommend that you use a move-in checklist, and take your digital camera and take pictures to attach to that move-in checklist. Be sure you go through all of that with the landlord prior to renting and moving into that property. As well as prior to your giving the keys back when you move out. Keep a copy for yourself, and I hope you have a good day. By-bye."