The Ultimate Move-Out Inspection Checklist for Tenants and Landlords

Moving out can undoubtedly feel overwhelming. You need to pack all the boxes. You need to book a moving company. And… you need to say goodbye to a place you called home!

In all that chaos, it’s easy to forget one important step: the move-out inspection. This is the final check that decides if you get your full security deposit back. Think of it as closing the last chapter of your rental story, making sure both you and your landlord part ways on good terms!

To take this burden off your shoulders, we’ve prepared a move-out inspection checklist, as well as some tips for both tenants and landlords that can be helpful in the process!

Key Points:

A move-out inspection protects both tenants and landlords. It records the rental property’s condition and helps prevent disputes about the security deposit.
The difference between wear and tear and damage matters very much. Normal aging shouldn’t cost you money, but damage from misuse usually will.
Preparation is everything. A thorough move-out inspection checklist will help both you and your landlord to make sure that no detail is missed, from floors and walls to appliances and outdoor spaces.

What Is a Move-Out Inspection?

When you move out of a rental, the landlord needs to check the rental property. This process is called a move-out inspection. In essence, it’s a final review to see how the place looks after your time there. Every corner needs to be checked: the walls, flooring, appliances, bathrooms, and more. You have the right to attend the inspection to make sure everything is checked correctly.

This rental process is extremely important. The landlord compares the current condition of the apartment/house with how it looked at the start of your lease agreement. If the property is in the same state, aside from natural aging, you usually get your deposit back. But if there’s major damage, some costs can be taken from your deposit.

Think of this inspection as a bridge between moving out and receiving your security money. It sets a clear record of how you left the space. For you, it’s a way to close the rental without confusion. For the landlord, it’s proof in case repair costs arise later.

Damage vs Normal Wear and Tear

Not everything that looks older in the house is considered damage. Time and normal use change things naturally. Paint might fade. Floors can show light scuff marks. And even appliances can lose their shine. These are signs of normal wear and tear. They come from ordinary use. And your landlord must keep these things in mind.

Damage is different: a cracked tile from dropping something heavy, a hole in the wall from nails, or broken blinds. These are caused by accidents or neglect, and the repair costs incurred by them are usually subtracted from the deposit.

Here’s how to think about it:

Wear and tear: fading curtains, loose door handles, and minor carpet wear.
Damage: stains from spilled drinks, cigarette burn marks, bent doors, or broken glass.

If you can explain the change by time and everyday use, it’s likely wear and tear. If it looks like misuse or careless action, it falls under damage. Knowing this difference helps you prepare before inspection day.

What Is the Purpose of a Move-Out Inspection?

A move-out inspection protects both you and the landlord. For you, it ensures that everything is fair when it comes to your security deposit. For the landlord, it shows if repairs are needed before the next tenant moves in.

Instead of arguing later, both sides see the property together. You know exactly what’s marked down, and the landlord records everything officially. This cuts down disputes, builds trust, and even prevents the risk of legal issues.

There’s also a practical side. A careful inspection tells the landlord what should be updated, like old fixtures or worn spaces. It helps prepare the property quickly for the new tenants and reduces vacancy time. Meanwhile, for you, it’s proof that you acted responsibly as a tenant. It can also help you keep a good rental history.

So, the purpose isn’t only about money. It’s about leaving the rental clean and fair, while also ensuring that the landlord knows what they’re handing over next. In short, everyone benefits from it.

When Should You Schedule a Move-Out Inspection?

Ideally, you should schedule the inspection about 1-2 weeks before the move-out date. This gives you enough time to fix anything before your final exit. Timing plays an important role here, so don’t wait until the very last minute.

However, some landlords prefer the inspection on your exact moving day. That’s not always the smartest option for you as a tenant. If something comes up, you’ll have no chance to adjust. A pre-inspection can help in that case.

So, just make sure to communicate early. Ask your landlord when they usually do an inspection. Clarify whether they expect you to be present or not. Keep in mind that it’s always a better choice to be present during the inspection. This way, you can explain details instantly and avoid misunderstandings.

Last but not least, plan ahead so the appointment fits your moving schedule. If you know the exact time frame, you’ll move out smoothly and without surprises about your deposit.

Landlord and Tenant Move-Out Inspection Checklist

This house/apartment move-out checklist is designed to help both tenants and landlords complete a thorough inspection of the property. Each area is broken down by common maintenance, cleaning, and condition checks to ensure nothing is overlooked.

Living Room, Bedrooms, and Common Areas

Walls & Ceilings

Verify if there are cracks, holes, scuffs, stains, or peeling paint.
Confirm whether nail holes, hooks, tape, or stickers have been removed.
Check for water stains or other signs of damage.

Floors & Carpets

Confirm that the carpets and rugs have been vacuumed.
Note whether carpets are spot-cleaned or professionally cleaned if required.
Inspect hardwood, laminate, or tile floors for deep scratches, stains, or water damage; confirm that they are swept, vacuumed, or mopped.

Windows, Doors & Window Treatments

Confirm that the window glass, frames, and sills are clean and in good condition. Check the same for glass doors and entry doors.
Check the blinds, curtains, and shades for dust or damage.
Test that windows open, close, and lock properly.
Inspect corners for cobwebs or dirt.

Fixtures & Hardware

Test all light switches and electrical outlets.
Confirm that all bulbs are present and working.
Inspect the ceiling fans, vents, and light fixtures.
Check if the closet doors, handles, and drawers function properly.

Furniture (if furnished)

Verify if all surfaces are dusted and wiped down.
Inspect for stains, scratches, or broken parts.

Kitchen

Appliances

Confirm that the refrigerator and freezer are empty, clean inside and out, and free of food.
Check that the freezer is defrosted (if it needs to be defrosted).
Inspect the oven, stovetop, and range hood (including filters) for cleanliness and proper function.
Verify if the microwave is wiped inside and out.
Inspect the dishwasher, filter, and racks for cleanliness and operation.
Confirm that the washer and dryer (if included) are empty and wiped clean.

Cabinets & Storage

Confirm that all cupboards, drawers, and pantry spaces are empty.
Inspect interiors and exteriors of cabinets for cleanliness.
Check handles and hinges for proper function.

Sink & Counters

Inspect the sink and the faucet for stains, rust, buildup, or leaks.
Confirm that the countertops and backsplashes are wiped clean.
Check if the garbage disposal is clean.

Flooring

Confirm that the kitchen floor is swept and mopped.
Inspect grout if tiled.

Bathroom(s)

Fixtures

Inspect the sinks, showers, bathtubs, and tiles for cleanliness.
Verify if soap scum, mold, mildew, and hair are removed.
Confirm that the faucets and drains are polished and functional.
Check if the mirrors and shower doors are streak-free and in good condition (not scratched or broken).
Ensure that the toilet is sanitized inside, outside, and around the base.

Storage

Confirm that the medicine cabinets, shelves, and drawers are empty and wiped.
Verify if personal items and toiletries have been removed.

Floors & Walls

Confirm that the floors are mopped and the grout cleaned.
Wipe and inspect baseboards.

Ventilation

Test the exhaust fan to ensure it works.
Confirm that the fan cover is clean.

Hallways, Entryways, and General Spaces

Inspect and clean the baseboards, trim, and molding.
Check all the doors (front, back, closet, and room doors) for cleanliness and proper function.
Test locks, doorknobs, and keys.
Wipe light switches and outlet covers.
Confirm that the floors are vacuumed or mopped.

Outdoor Areas (if applicable)

Confirm that the balconies, patios, decks, or porches are swept and that cobwebs, leaves, and debris are removed.
Check if the outdoor storage or sheds are empty and clean.
Confirm that the lawn, bushes, and garden beds are maintained if the tenant was responsible for this.
Verify if the trash, any large items, and all personal belongings are removed.

Safety & Utilities

Confirm that all the light bulbs are functional.
Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
Check the fire extinguisher (if provided).
Inspect HVAC vents for cleanliness and obstructions.
Replace HVAC air filter if required (for the tenant).
Confirm that the thermostat is set to the agreed-upon temperature.
Ensure all keys, garage remotes, and access cards are returned.

Tenant Move-Out Checklist Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even when you clean thoroughly, there are a number of small but important details that often get forgotten during the inspection. These can lead to deductions from the security deposit or delays in the inspection process. Here are the most common oversights.

Cleaning Oversights

Inside appliances – forgetting to clean the inside of the oven, microwave, refrigerator, freezer, and dishwasher.
Hidden areas – leaving dust or debris on top of cabinets, baseboards, vents, behind doors, or under appliances.
Bathroom buildup – missing mold or mildew around caulking, soap scum on tiles, or hair in drains.
Windows and blinds – overlooking streaks on glass, dirty tracks, or dusty blinds.
Light fixtures and ceiling fans – forgetting to wipe down fan blades or remove bugs/dust from light covers.

Repairs and Damage

Nail and screw holes – leaving hooks, anchors, or nails in walls instead of patching them.
Burned-out bulbs – not replacing missing or nonfunctional lightbulbs.
Stains and marks – failing to address carpet stains, wall scuffs, or scratches on floors.
Clogged drains or leaks – not checking plumbing for slow drainage, drips, or water damage.

General Oversights

Personal items – leaving behind clothing, furniture, food, or cleaning supplies.
Trash and recycling – not removing bags from bins, closets, garages, or outdoor areas.
Outdoor areas – forgetting to sweep balconies, patios, porches, or to tidy up yard spaces if responsible.
Keys and remotes – failing to return garage remotes, mail keys, or entry cards.
Documentation – not taking photos of the unit’s condition for personal records before turning over the keys.

For the Tenant: What to Do if Some Items Show Signs of Damage?

If you are a tenant and you notice that some items or rooms show signs of damage, look at each issue carefully. Ask yourself whether it’s wear and tear or actual damage.

If you find something damaged, fix it before the inspection if possible.

You can clean or patch small marks by yourself, for example. But a large hole or broken appliance will need more effort, so it may be more convenient for you to have the repair costs deducted from your deposit (if you don’t have time to repair it yourself).

Be honest in communication, too. Mention what happened and show that you’ve tried to solve it. Many landlords appreciate transparency. If a fix isn’t possible, expect part of the deposit to cover the replacement costs.

Lastly, don’t ignore a problem. A visible issue left behind often looks worse than if you had made an effort.

For the Landlord: What Should You Do If You Find Damaged Items

When you find damaged items during a move-out inspection, handle the situation step by step. Start by documenting everything. Take clear photos of each issue and write short notes. This serves as evidence in case the tenant disagrees later. Always compare what you see now with the move-in inspection report. Only then can you be sure it counts as damage and not wear and tear.

Next, speak directly with the tenant. Be calm and explain what you found, providing them with a written notice and all the documentation. Don’t forget that clear communication prevents confusion or disputes. Most tenants will accept responsibility if you provide proof.

Once you’ve discussed it with a tenant, decide whether to repair the issue yourself or hire a professional. Or maybe the tenant wants to repair it themselves (if they have the necessary skills).

Larger jobs, like replacing flooring or fixing major appliances, usually require outside contractors. Either way, keep every invoice and receipt. These prove that the repair cost is fair and not inflated. Also, it’s best to schedule the cleaning and repairs soon after the tenant moves out.

After that, deduct the repair costs from the tenant’s security deposit. Don’t forget to provide them with a written itemized statement that lists the specific damages, repair actions, and related expenses. This way, you’ll avoid any potential legal disputes. In fact, many landlords are legally required to do this within a set time frame, depending on local laws.

Finally, use the inspection as an opportunity to check if the property needs general updates, too. The tenant pays only for actual damages, but you can also schedule normal upgrades to refresh the space before the next renter arrives.

Bonus For the Tenant: Before You Move Out

Before leaving, walk through the home as if you were the landlord. See it with fresh eyes. Pretend someone new is moving in tomorrow. Would they find it ready? Ask yourself that question in every room.

And start with cleaning. Deep cleaning matters more than daily tidying. Appliances should sparkle. Carpets need vacuuming or steam cleaning. Windows should be clear.

Next, repair what you reasonably can: fill small holes, tighten fixtures, and replace any missing items like light bulbs.

Don’t forget paperwork either. Collect receipts if you get repairs done. This serves as proof of your effort. And take photos of each room when finished for backup. Also, don’t forget about notifying the utility companies, if needed.

Finally, hand over keys, garage remotes, or passes in one package. These details sound simple, but missing them can delay your deposit return.

How to Dispute a Move-Out Inspection

If you feel the inspection report is unfair, don’t panic. The first step is to request a detailed, itemized list of damages and corresponding security deposit deductions from your landlord. This transparency helps you understand what you’re being charged for and why. Moreover, make sure you understand local laws, so you know how and when to take action.

Next, gather your own evidence. Look at your move-in checklist and photos you took when you moved in. It’s also important to take photos before you leave, so if you’ve done that, use them. Compare them carefully with the landlord’s claims. If you spot any inconsistencies, communicate them clearly and calmly to your landlord.

If direct discussions don’t help, check if your local tenancy laws offer mediation or dispute resolution services. Many places provide free or low-cost options to settle disagreements without going to court.

Be sure to keep all documents, emails, and photos organized and stay polite and professional during the dispute, as this increases your chances of a fair outcome.

Final Thoughts

We’ve all been there: moving out is incredibly stressful. Plus, you’ve got all that cleaning to do to leave everything spotless! Otherwise, you risk not getting your security deposit back. Way too relatable.

That’s why preparing for the inspection is of utmost importance. If you use a move-out inspection checklist, everything is much easier! Why is a move-out checklist important? Because landlords use a similar one!

Ultimately, just take the time to do it right to avoid any disputes later.

And if you’re a landlord, you can also benefit from a detailed move-out inspection checklist to make sure you don’t forget anything and avoid disputes in the future (and sometimes even costly repairs!).

And if you need help making your move-out stress-free, you can trust Streamline Property Management, as we support both tenants and landlords with comprehensive property management services that protect your time, money, and peace of mind. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us take the guesswork out of your move!

FAQs

What to check after tenants move out?

After tenants move out, landlords should check for any damage beyond normal wear and tear, including walls, floors, appliances, and cleanliness. It’s also important to verify that all personal belongings are removed and utilities are functioning properly.

How to pass a move-out inspection?

To pass a move-out inspection, thoroughly clean the property, repair any damage you caused (that is not wear and tear), and ensure all appliances and fixtures are in working order. It’s also recommended to be present during the inspection to help clarify any concerns the landlord might have.

What do landlords check when they do an inspection?

During an inspection, landlords check the overall condition of the property, focusing on damage versus normal wear and tear, cleanliness, and proper functioning of appliances and fixtures. They also ensure that the tenant has removed all personal items and returned keys or access devices.

What is a tenant responsible for when moving out?

When moving out, tenants are responsible for leaving the rental clean, repairing any damage they caused, and returning all keys and remotes. They should also notify utility companies and provide a forwarding address for deposit returns.

How long do move-out inspections take?

Move-out inspections usually take between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size and condition of the property. Larger homes or properties with multiple rooms may require more time.