Move-in Move Out Checklist
The tenant should give the landlord a written notice to move out. The notice should clearly state the reason(s) for moving out, and when it will take place
The landlord-tenant rental agreement should have provisions about the notice period. A notice will help both the landlord and tenant schedule an inspection of the property around the move out period
The tenant should always notify the landlord of any damages or changes to the rental property.
- Moving dates :Typically, a move out shouldn’t take place during a holiday. But if it does, make sure the landlord knows and is comfortable with the date.
- Access time :To avoid any problems, it’s important for tenants to have a candid discussion with the landlord on when and how often they can bring in people to view the rental property. Usually, it’s laid out in the lease.
The tenant is required to keep the property as close to its original condition as possible. As such, everything in the rental property should be cleaned and tidied up. This includes the bathrooms, kitchens, baseboards, floors, drawers, closets, stoves, refrigerator, microwave, stoves and any other effects furnished by the landlord.
The exterior area should be cleaned as well. If the apartment was carpeted, the carpets should be laundered and cleaned. Pet owners should fumigate the area, and any remaining trash should be taken out.
As mentioned earlier, the property should be kept as close to its original condition as possible. For example, if the tenant made changes to the original paint color, that color should be painted back. Otherwise, the landlord has the right to keep part or all of the security deposit in lieu of the unauthorized changes.
During the move out, tenants should ensure that they don’t leave any personal property behind. If there is a specific piece tenants want to leave behind, they should check with the landlord ahead of time.
Carbon monoxide and smoke alarms should be left in working condition.
Light bulbs, phone jacks, and other electric appliances and devices should be left in working condition.
Light bulbs, phone jacks, and other electric appliances and devices should be left in working condition.
All utilities should be in good working condition before transferring them back to the landlord.
All heating systems should be in good working condition. No blockages or leaks should be in the plumbing.
The date for returning keys should be clearly laid out.
The rental agreement should clearly specify how changes to the rental property should be authorized. It should also state how and when tenants can get their security deposit. The agreement should also outline the tenant’s rights and responsibilities.
Before a move-in, the property should be inspected to make sure that everything is clean and tidied up. The bathrooms, kitchen, windows, closets, baseboards, drawers, carpets and windows should all be clean.
Alarms should be installed and in good working condition.
All the electric appliances provided should be in good working condition.
Utility meter readings should be obtained by the landlord.
The air conditioning and heating should be in excellent working condition. Likewise, the faucets and toilets should be checked for leaks and/or blockages.
If the space is carpeted, the carpets should be checked for unpleasant odors, and photos should be taken of them
If the property has either or both of these, photos should be taken of them.
The communication process between tenant and landlord should be clearly defined.
