Don’t Forget the Move-Out Checklist: A Must-Do Before Your Tenant Leaves

As a landlord, there are several important tasks to be done before a tenant moves out, such as collecting keys, returning the security deposit, and making sure the property is left in good condition. One of the most crucial steps is conducting a thorough move-out inspection using a checklist. This inspection will help you identify any damages or issues that need to be addressed before a new tenant moves in, and can prevent disputes over security deposits or damages to the property. In this blog post, we'll discuss the importance of a move-out checklist, what to include in it, and how to conduct the inspection effectively to ensure a smooth transition between tenants.

What is the move-out checklist?

A move-out checklist is a list for inspecting a rental property's condition before a tenant leaves. This helps landlords assess the property's condition and deduct damages from the security deposit 'in order of importance'. The checklist should be included in the lease agreement, so both parties understand what needs to be inspected. If any item on the checklist is damaged, landlords can deduct a predetermined amount from the security deposit. Learn more about the importance of a move-out checklist in our upcoming blog post.

Why is a move-out checklist important?

Landlords often make the mistake of missing damaged or faulty items during rental property inspections before a tenant moves out, leading to expensive repairs later on. To avoid this, a move-out checklist can streamline the process by prioritizing important items and ensuring nothing is overlooked. This promotes fairness and transparency for both parties, as all necessary items are clearly outlined in writing.

What you need in the checklist

• Provide a 3-5 day notice for the landlord to inspect the property and return the security deposit.
• The walls, floors, and ceilings should be free of any marks or writings.
• Remove all personal property from the house, leaving nothing behind for the landlord to dispose of.
• Ensure there is no garbage or waste left in the house.
• Clean the house thoroughly and return it to its original condition when the tenant first moved in. This includes painting, if necessary, to match the original colors.
• If there is an outdoor area, clean it and leave it in its original condition.
• Trees outside the house should be well-maintained, watered, and decorated. If a tree is left dead by the tenant, they will be responsible.
• The landlord's appliances, such as kitchen and electrical appliances, must be in good condition, functional, and not lost.
• Doors and windows must be functional and undamaged.
• Electrical equipment and wiring must work properly, with all lights functioning and no missing bulbs.
• The plumbing and water system must be functional, without leaks, and in the same condition as when you moved in.
• The kitchen must be clean and in good condition, with functional counters and cabinets.
• The bathroom fixtures must be functional and undamaged.
• Other equipment provided by the landlord beyond the list must be in good condition and not removed, such as water pumps, emergency backup lights, smoke detectors, etc.
• All keys (along with remote control for the house, if any) must be returned in their entirety.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a move-out checklist is an essential tool for landlords to ensure that their property is in good condition and ready for the next tenant. It provides clear expectations for the tenant and helps to avoid disputes over security deposits. By following the guidelines outlined in this post, you can create a comprehensive move-out checklist that covers all aspects of the property, from the condition of the walls and floors to the functionality of appliances and plumbing. By making sure that your tenant has met all the requirements on the checklist, you can rest assured that your property will be ready for the next occupant. So, don't forget to use a move-out checklist and make your next tenant's move-in process as smooth as possible.

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