Streamline Your Move-In Process With An Impeccable Landlord Move-In Checklist

Bringing new residents into a rental property requires more than a lease, signing it, and turning over the key. You also have to deal with the rental property inspection, and one of the most essential inspections a property manager must do is the move-in inspection.

According to a study, about 71% of residents had plans to rent their next homes in 2020. Using a landlord-tenant move-in checklist can help streamline the process and make it less stressful for everyone.

This article outlines the benefits of having a checklist handy for move-in inspections to ensure the success of rental properties and keep residents happy.

Why Is A Move-In Inspection Important?

It is important for new residents and property managers to conduct a detailed move-in inspection. This process involves documenting the rental property's condition during the move-in process using visual and written methods. 

Any damages after the assessment will be the resident's responsibility at the end of the lease term. The owner will use a move-out inspection form to compare any additional damages. Overall, the move-in inspection is crucial for various reasons, including the following:

Recover Repair Costs Easily

A move-in inspection can help recover repair costs. Reputable property managers recommend collecting a security deposit at the start of a new lease term. The amount helps cover property damage costs of damage, early lease termination, or unpaid rent.

A property manager must have proof before using the security deposit to cover for damage beyond the usual wear and tear. An apartment move-in checklist for landlords can help show existing and recent damage.

It’s A Legal Requirement

All property managers must follow local, state, and federal landlord-tenant laws and disclose specific information to residents during move-in. The disclosure is in or with the lease agreement as a separate document.

An essential component to disclose in states such as Louisiana is the certification that the property is free of lead paint hazards. The Section 1018 Disclosure Rule requires all properties constructed before 1978 to register as having possible lead paint hazards. 

Property managers must also distribute educational materials among residents regarding the risks and meet strict inspection requirements.

Including the information in the move-in inspection protects residents from lead paint while covering property owners from costly lawsuits. Failure to disclose may lead to loss of rental license, fines, and even expensive litigation.

All Parties Are Responsible

A move-in inspection ensures all parties are responsible for the property's condition.

Having residents sign the move-in rental inspection checklist means property owners can set clear expectations for the care of the property. 

The inspection and lease agreement also holds owners responsible. The property manager must detail any damage in an itemized list of security deposit deductions at the end of the lease term. Thus, the property owner cannot withhold the security deposit for things under the wear and tear category.

Help Protect The Property, Business, And Profits

Failure to streamline the move-in inspection process can lead to issues such as:

• It’s possible to overlook any damage before the resident moves in. Additionally, not everyone involved in the inspection may give it their full attention.
• The original condition can be altered or damaged as the resident moves in. Therefore, the resident or property manager will have no proof of existing damage or new resident fault.

Will A Landlord-Tenant Checklist Template Help Streamline The Process?

A move-in checklist offers a convenient and organized way to keep track of the rental property’s condition. It ensures the property manager doesn’t forget or miss anything during the inspection.

Property managers can use the document to determine the damage caused by a resident when they move out. This helps eliminate refundable security deposit disputes if part of the monies goes to damage repairs.

What To Include In Your Next Landlord Move-In Checklist

The more information you include in the checklist, the better it helps protect the property manager and resident.

There are several items to include in a move-in checklist. The form should ideally have separate sections for each room within the property. This keeps it organized while allowing for some customization.

Here’s what to cover in the move-in checklist for a landlord.

General Items

Property managers and residents must note the condition of various items around the home, including:

• Ceiling
• Air vents
• Countertops
• Floors

Assess The Doors And Windows

Doors and windows are part of a rental unit, but ensure they are in perfect working condition. 

Your move-in inspection checklist should include the following:

• Twisting all the doorknobs and testing all the locks. They should not wobble and have a key for each lock.
• Getting new keys for the locks so the old resident cannot access the home.
• Trying all doors and windows to ensure they close and open.
• Making sure all window coverings are intact.
• Checking windows for drafts.
• Check that closet doors open and close with ease.

Review The Appliances

Most apartments and homes for rent have basic appliances like ovens, stoves, and fridges. Include these devices in the move-in checklist.

Reviewing the items includes:

• Testing each appliance to ensure it works.
• Test all burners, the oven, and the broiler on the stove.
• Checking that the freezer and refrigerator get cold, each drawer opens, and for lingering smells.
• Running the air conditioner and heater so they work and produce cold and heat, respectively.
• Ensure that laundry facilities in a common area are well-maintained, accessible to residents only, and clean.
• Checking that the dishwasher, dryer, and washer work.

Check The Plumbing

Leaks are inconvenient and may require expensive repairs. 

Include the following items in the checklist:

• Look underneath the sinks and around the toilet for leaks and signs of dampness.
• Ensure the faucets shut off properly.
• Check the sinks and tubs for missing tiles or grout.
• Look for signs of water damage and mark it.
• Inspect for loose faucet fixtures.
• Turn on the shower to test for hot water temperature and pressure.

Check For Electrical Issues

Electricity is critical for everyday living, so confirm all outlets are working. 

Tips to confirm that the electrical is fully functional include:

• Carry a phone charger and plug it into all outlets to see if they work.
• Check for the location of phone jacks, internet, and cable.
• Turn all wall switches on and off, and remember to check if the light flickers when you turn on other components.

How Can I Improve The Move-In Inspection?

An efficient move-in process is paramount for the peace of mind of the resident and property manager. Here are a few things you can do today to improve the move-in inspection.

Simplify The Process

Property managers can improve the move-in inspection by simplifying it. Resources such as RentCheck can help manage the inspection process and generate quick reports.

RentCheck is an excellent rental property inspection app that eases the rental inspection process. Residents can perform the inspection themselves without directly involving a property manager. The strategy helps free up the manager’s time tremendously while taking the pressure off residents planning to move in.

Make Frequent Repairs

The pinnacle moment of the move-in process is the resident getting into their new home. Property managers must carefully inspect the unit for hazards and arrange for repairs.

Common repairs you should complete before the move-in day include:

• Railings: Steady railings are essential for property safety, whether for the in-house stairs or the balcony.
• Cosmetic damage: Replace missing tiles, fix wall holes, and repaint the walls.
• Mold: Mold can cause serious health issues for residents and lead to costly repairs.
• Smoke detectors: Ensure the property has functioning detectors, and remember to change batteries before the resident arrives.

Plan For Professional Cleaning

A property manager can clean the unit themselves, but outsourcing to a professional crew will help you save energy and time. Further, they understand what it takes to make a house sparkling clean.

Consider partnering with a cleaning crew that has done an excellent job in the past to save money and get the same service level every time.

Ensure Resident Accounts Are Set Up

Get any accounts running under the resident’s name ready on or before move-in day.

Save the residents the stress of signing up for multiple accounts in one day by informing them early. Having the accounts ready by move-in day will help them feel welcome and at home immediately.

Some accounts you should add to a move-in checklist include:

• Utilities
• Community board or app
• Wi-Fi
• Resident portal
• Parking

Be Smart And Start With RentCheck Today

To create the best landlord move-in checklist, leverage the best industry technology. Incorporate RentCheck into your move-in process and simplify move-in and out inspections.

RentCheck offers a user-friendly platform that helps save time and organize your resources. Residents can complete inspections independently and quickly. Sign up for a free account today and take the first step to effective rental property management!

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