There are several reasons we recommend inspecting your rental unit before moving into a new apartment or home. Inspections allow you to identify problems you can ask the landlord to fix before move-in. It also helps you create documentation (taking photos, making a written record of known issues) before you move into a new property. Below, you will find a list of different items we recommend looking at before you move into a new unit.
Things to Look Out for When Moving into a New Place
General Condition of the Apartment/Property
Overall cleanliness and maintenance
Signs of pests (mice, insects)
Paint condition (peeling or in good repair)
Safety
Working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
No exposed wires near water sources
Windows and doors that open, close, and lock securely
Water/Plumbing
Water flow and temperature in all sinks and showers
Proper toilet function
Signs of leaks or water damage under sinks
Heating, Cooling, and Appliances
Working heater and air conditioning
Working appliances (oven, stove, refrigerator)
Electric
All light switches operational
Power to all electrical outlets (test with phone charger)
Creating a Walkthrough Checklist
Date of Walkthrough: __________________ Address: _____________________________ Landlord/Property Manager Name: __________________ Lease Start Date: ___________________ Person Accompanying You (if any): ___________________
Walk-Through Checklist
Entry & Security
☐ All exterior doors lock securely ☐ All keys provided (apartment, mailbox, building, storage) ☐ Doorbell/intercom works ☐ Deadbolt lock functions ☐ Windows lock properly and are not broken ☐ Smoke detectors present and working ☐ Carbon monoxide detector (if applicable) ☐ Fire extinguisher available
Utilities & Appliances
☐ Lights and outlets work in every room ☐ Circuit breaker clearly labeled and accessible ☐ Plumbing: Faucets work, no leaks ☐ Toilet flushes and fills properly ☐ Hot water runs in all faucets ☐ Shower water pressure is reasonable ☐ All appliances function (fridge, oven, stove, microwave, etc.) ☐ Air conditioning / heat turns on and off ☐ Washer/dryer (if included) works properly ☐ Check for water damage under sinks and near appliances ☐ Check for pests (droppings, traps, bug spray, etc.)
Interior Condition
Walls, Ceilings, and Floors ☐ Walls are clean and not damaged ☐ Ceiling has no signs of leaks or sagging ☐ Flooring (carpet, tile, wood) is clean and undamaged ☐ Check for mold/mildew especially in bathrooms and closets ☐ Adequate insulation (check drafts near windows/doors)
Doors and Windows ☐ Open/close all windows and doors easily ☐ Blinds/shades/curtains are working (if included) ☐ Screens are intact (no holes) ☐ Windows are double-paned or weatherproof (if in cold climate)
Kitchen
☐ Sink works with hot and cold water ☐ Stove burners ignite ☐ Oven heats up ☐ Fridge and freezer are cold ☐ Exhaust fan or hood works ☐ Cabinets and drawers open/close properly ☐ Garbage disposal (if present) works ☐ No bugs or pest signs
Bathroom(s)
☐ Toilet flushes, refills, and doesn’t run continuously ☐ Sink drains properly ☐ Shower/tub clean and drains well ☐ No visible mold or water damage ☐ Mirror and storage cabinet in good condition ☐ Ventilation fan works
Bedrooms / Living Area
☐ Light switches work ☐ Closets open/close and have rods/shelves ☐ Outlets are working (bring phone charger to test) ☐ Flooring is clean and undamaged
Other Essentials
☐ Wi-Fi/cable hookups present ☐ Cell phone signal available throughout unit ☐ Thermostat works and is accessible ☐ Parking space is assigned/available (if needed) ☐ Trash/recycling area accessible and clean ☐ Storage unit or bike storage (if promised)
Reminder to take Photos!
☐ Take timestamped photos of: ☐ Damages ☐ Stains ☐ Broken fixtures ☐ Unclean areas
Notes / Concerns to Report to Landlord - Remember to document anything you found that was broken, missing, or not cleaned, and send it to the landlord in writing.
Final Steps
☐ All utilities transferred to your name (if required) ☐ Renters insurance arranged ☐ Mail forwarding set up ☐ Emergency contact for landlord/super saved ☐ Signed copy of lease received ☐ Ask about how maintenance requests are submitted
Taking the time to complete a thorough walk-through before moving in isn’t just about checking boxes - it’s about protecting yourself, setting clear expectations, and starting your new chapter with confidence. By documenting the condition of the space, you reduce the risk of future disputes and ensure that your home is safe, functional, and ready for you. Preparedness now sets you up for fewer surprises later and a much smoother living experience.
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