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  2. Move In Checklist

Move In Checklist

Purpose:
The Move-In Checklist guides property managers to inspect rental properties thoroughly before new tenants move in. By following this checklist, property managers can ensure that the property meets industry standards, local regulations, and the specific requirements outlined in the provided sources. The checklist includes detailed instructions, room-by-room inspection items, fields for personalization, and areas for tenant information, facilitating a smooth move-in process.
Scope:
This Move-In Checklist covers all aspects of property inspection before new tenants occupy the rental property. It incorporates best practices, industry trends, and legal requirements, providing property managers with a comprehensive tool to evaluate the property's condition and document any existing issues.




  1. 1

    General Information

    Purpose: Gather essential details about the property and tenants.
    Steps:
    1. Fill out the property name, address, move-in date, tenant name, and landlord's name.
    2. Record the names and contact information of up to three tenants.
    3. Provide a forwarding address for each tenant. The tenant should provide their forwarding address so that the landlord can contact them if any questions arise after the move-in.
    4. Take photographs or make relevant notes for documentation.
    Form Fields
  2. 2

    Exterior Inspection

    Purpose: Assess the exterior condition of the property.
    Steps:
    1. Inspect the building's façade, noting any visible damage or issues.
    2. Check the condition of windows, doors, and locks.
    3. Evaluate the condition of the roof, gutters, and downspouts.
    4. Evaluate the condition of the driveway, porch, and stairs.
    5. Evaluate the condition of the patio, if applicable.
    6. Examine the landscaping, including lawn, trees, and shrubs.
    7. Verify the functionality of outdoor lights, if applicable.
    8. Take photographs or make relevant notes for documentation.
    Form Fields
  3. 3

    Interior Inspection: Entryway

    Purpose: Evaluate the condition of the entryway and common areas.
    Note: You can exclude this step if there is no common area in the property.
    Steps:
    1. Assess the condition of the main entrance door, doorbell, and locks.
    2. Inspect the flooring, walls, and ceilings for any visible damage.
    3. Check the functionality of light fixtures, electrical outlets, and switches.
    4. Verify the presence and functionality of closets, cabinets, and countertops.
    5. Verify the presence and functionality of appliances.
    6. Verify the presence and functionality of plumbing fixtures, heating and cooling systems.
    7. Verify the presence and functionality of fireplaces.
    8. Verify the presence and functionality of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
    9. Evaluate the cleanliness of shared spaces such as hallways or lobbies.
    10. Take photographs or make relevant notes for documentation.
    Form Fields
  4. 4

    Interior Inspection: Kitchen and Appliances

    Begin with the kitchen and evaluate appliances, cabinets, sinks, countertops, and light fixtures.
    Form Fields
  5. 5

    Interior Inspection: Living rooms

    Move to the living room, examining flooring, walls, windows, ceilings, light fixtures, switches, and electrical outlets.
    Form Fields
  6. 6

    Interior Inspection: Bedrooms

    Proceed to bedrooms, evaluating flooring conditions, walls, windows, ceilings, closets, light fixtures, switches, and electrical outlets.
    Form Fields
  7. 7

    Interior Inspection: Bathrooms

    Inspect bathrooms, including light fixtures, plumbing, ventilation, flooring, walls, windows, ceilings, closets, switches, and electrical outlets.
    Form Fields
  8. 8

    Interior Inspection: Other Rooms

    Assess any additional rooms, such as an office or dining area.
    Form Fields
  9. 9

    Interior Inspection: Room-Specific Amenities

    Ensure all room-specific amenities, such as security systems, intercoms, fans, or air conditioning, are present.
    Form Fields
  10. 10

    Utilities and Systems Testing

    Purpose: Verify the functionality of various systems within the property.
    Steps:
    1. Test heating and cooling systems, documenting their performance.
    2. Check the functionality of electrical outlets, switches, and light fixtures.
    3. Inspect plumbing fixtures, including sinks, toilets, and showers.
    4. Evaluate the condition of water heaters and water pressure.
    5. Verify the functionality of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.
    6. Test any different systems present, such as intercoms or security systems.
    7. Take photographs or make relevant notes for documentation.
    Form Fields
  11. 11

    Safety and Security

    Purpose: Ensure the property meets safety and security standards.
    Steps:
    1. Ensure the availability of fire extinguishers and verify their expiration dates.
    2. Assess the condition of handrails, stairs, and balconies.
    3. Verify that windows and doors have working locks and proper ventilation.
    4. Inspect the garage or parking area, if applicable.
    5. Evaluate the accessibility and condition of emergency exits.
    6. Take photographs or make relevant notes about any potential safety hazards.
    Form Fields
  12. 12

    Inspection of Yards, Outdoor Areas, Storage Rooms, Checking of Pest Damage or Infestation, and Miscellaneous

    Purpose: Include additional considerations for a comprehensive inspection.
    Steps:
    1. Inspect any outdoor areas, such as balconies, patios, or yards.
    2. Assess storage areas, such as basements or attics.
    3. Check for the presence of pest infestations or signs of damage.
    4. Evaluate the condition of any appliances or furniture provided by a landlord.
    5. Document any other relevant observations or special requirements.
    Form Fields
  13. 13

    Final Steps

    Purpose: Complete the Move-In Checklist and ensure its accuracy.
    Steps:
    1. Review the checklist thoroughly for any items that have been missed.
    2. Obtain the signatures of up to three tenants, acknowledging the property's condition at the time of move-in.
    3. Provide tenants with a copy of the completed checklist for their reference.
    4. Store the information collected and the checklist securely for future reference and legal compliance.
    Form Fields
  14. 14

    End