Move-in checklist: document everything, day one
Fill in the header, pick your state for the legal fine print, hit print (or save as PDF), and walk the unit room by room. The condition you record today is the evidence that wins the deposit back when you leave. Photograph every issue you note - and store the photos in the free move-in vault so they are timestamped and ready if a dispute starts.
getmydepositback.org · Move-in checklist
For each item: tick one condition box, describe any issue in Notes, and tick Photo once you have photographed it (wide shot + close-up).
| Entry & hallway | Good | Fair | Damaged | Notes | Photo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Front door, locks & deadbolt | |||||
| Doorbell / intercom | |||||
| Walls & ceiling | |||||
| Floor | |||||
| Light fixtures & switches |
| Living room | Good | Fair | Damaged | Notes | Photo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walls & ceiling | |||||
| Floor / carpet | |||||
| Windows, screens & locks | |||||
| Blinds / curtains | |||||
| Outlets & light fixtures |
| Kitchen | Good | Fair | Damaged | Notes | Photo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Countertops | |||||
| Sink & faucet (leaks, drainage) | |||||
| Cabinets & drawers - inside too | |||||
| Stove, oven & hood | |||||
| Refrigerator / freezer | |||||
| Dishwasher | |||||
| Walls & backsplash | |||||
| Floor |
| Bathroom(s) | Good | Fair | Damaged | Notes | Photo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tub / shower & doors | |||||
| Tile & caulking | |||||
| Toilet (base, tank, seat) | |||||
| Sink, vanity & mirror | |||||
| Exhaust fan | |||||
| Floor |
| Bedroom(s) | Good | Fair | Damaged | Notes | Photo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walls & ceiling | |||||
| Closet, doors & tracks | |||||
| Windows, screens & locks | |||||
| Carpet / floor | |||||
| Outlets & light fixtures |
| Appliances & systems | Good | Fair | Damaged | Notes | Photo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washer / dryer | |||||
| Heating & AC / thermostat | |||||
| Water heater (leaks, rust) | |||||
| Smoke & CO detectors | |||||
| Circuit breaker panel |
| Balcony / outdoor / storage | Good | Fair | Damaged | Notes | Photo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balcony or patio surface & railing | |||||
| Storage unit / garage | |||||
| Yard or shared areas named in the lease |
| Meters, keys & mailbox | Good | Fair | Damaged | Notes | Photo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric meter reading | |||||
| Gas meter reading | |||||
| Water meter reading | |||||
| Keys, fobs & garage remotes | |||||
| Mailbox key & number |
Paper fades. Photos win disputes.
The checklist tells you where to look - the photos prove what you found. The free move-in vault stores them room by room with timestamps, and if a dispute ever starts they become numbered exhibits in your case file automatically.
Store my photos free →Frequently asked questions
Why do I need a move-in checklist?
It documents the unit's condition before you were responsible for it. Deposit disputes usually come down to move-in versus move-out condition - a dated, signed checklist (plus photos) is the evidence that damage existed before you arrived.
Should my landlord sign the move-in checklist?
Ask - a countersigned copy is the strongest version. If they won't sign, email them a copy the day you complete it: the email timestamp itself becomes your proof of when the condition was recorded.
Is a checklist enough, or do I need photos too?
Use both. The checklist structures the walkthrough so you miss nothing; timestamped photos prove what the checkboxes claim. Photograph every issue you note, wide shot plus close-up.
Do any states require a move-in inspection?
Several states require the landlord to provide a condition statement or offer an inspection at move-in or move-out. Check your state guide on this site for the specific rule and citation.