Free Tenant Move-In Checklist & Condition Report

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Tenant Move-In Checklist

Pre-move-in prep + room-by-room condition report

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About This Template

One of the most common sources of landlord-tenant disputes is disagreement over the property's condition at move-in versus move-out — especially when it's time to return (or deduct from) the security deposit. This Tenant Move-In Checklist solves that problem with a structured, signed condition report completed on day one.

The checklist covers pre-move-in preparation (utilities, cleaning, welcome packet) plus a room-by-room condition rating for living areas, kitchen, and bathrooms. Both tenant and landlord sign the completed form — creating a documented baseline that protects everyone if questions arise later.

What's Included

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Pre-Move-In Prep ListUtility transfers, cleaning, re-keying & welcome packet.

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Room-by-Room Condition ReportRate each area Good/Fair/Poor with space for notes.

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Kitchen & Bathroom DetailAppliance condition fields for fridge, stove, dishwasher & more.

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Move-In Day ProcedurePhoto/video walkthrough, detector tests & meter readings.

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Dual Signature BlockTenant and landlord both sign — creates a documented record.

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Reusable at Move-OutUse the same form to compare condition when the tenant leaves.

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Tenant Move-In Checklist

Property Condition Report · Move-In Documentation

Tenant Name:

Unit/Address:

Move-In Date:

Inspected By:

🔑 Before Move-In Day

Confirm lease signed & first month's rent + deposit collected

Schedule utility transfers (electric, water, gas, internet)

Deep clean unit & test all systems

Change locks / re-key if needed

Prepare welcome packet (house rules, contact info, trash schedule)

🏠 Living Areas — Condition (Rate: Good / Fair / Poor)

Walls & ceilings —

Flooring/carpet —

Windows & blinds —

Light fixtures & switches —

Doors & locks —

🍳 Kitchen — Condition

Refrigerator (note temp & condition) —

Stove/oven —

Dishwasher (if applicable) —

Cabinets & countertops —

Sink & faucet —

🚿 Bathroom(s) — Condition

Toilet —

Tub/shower —

Sink & vanity —

Exhaust fan —

📋 Move-In Day

Walk through unit together — document with photos/video

Test smoke & CO detectors with tenant present

Record all utility meter readings

Provide keys, garage remotes, mailbox keys

Both parties sign & date this condition report

Tenant Signature:

Landlord Signature:

Template by diblk.com — keep a signed copy for both tenant and landlord records. Use the same form at move-out to compare condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need a move-in condition report?▼

A signed move-in condition report establishes the baseline condition of the property before the tenant moves in. At move-out, you compare the same form to determine what changes are normal wear and tear versus tenant-caused damage — this is essential for fair, defensible security deposit deductions and avoids he-said-she-said disputes.

Should the tenant be present for the move-in inspection?▼

Yes, ideally. Walking through the unit together and having both parties sign the condition report creates mutual agreement on the starting condition. If the tenant notices something you missed, it gets documented immediately rather than becoming a dispute later.

What should I photograph during move-in?▼

Photograph or video every room, paying special attention to: existing scuffs/marks on walls, carpet condition, appliance condition (including inside fridge/oven), any pre-existing damage, and all fixtures. Date-stamp photos and store them with the signed checklist.

Do I need to record utility meter readings at move-in?▼

Yes, if utilities will transfer to the tenant's name or if you're tracking usage for a master-metered building. Recording readings at move-in (and move-out) prevents billing disputes about which tenant used what.

How long should I keep the signed move-in checklist?▼

Keep it for the full duration of the tenancy plus your state's security deposit dispute window after move-out (often 1-2 years). Many landlords keep these records for 3+ years as part of standard recordkeeping.

Tenant Move-In Checklist

About This Template

What's Included

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Tenant Move-In Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

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