Move-out inspection: leave with proof, not hope
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 what stands between you and invented damage charges. 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-out inspection 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). Compare against your move-in record where you have one.
| 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
What should I check before moving out?
Walk every room after your things are out: walls, floors, windows, appliances inside and out, bathroom caulking, smoke detectors, meter readings, and every key you have to return. Note the condition of each item and photograph as you go.
Can my landlord charge me for normal wear and tear?
No - no US state allows deductions for ordinary wear and tear (faded paint, minor scuffs, carpet worn by normal use). Deductions are only lawful for damage beyond normal use, unpaid rent, or other charges the statute allows.
What if my landlord won't do a walkthrough with me?
Do your own with this checklist, photograph everything, and email the completed copy to the landlord the same day. The dated record of the condition you left is exactly what wins deposit disputes.
When do I get my deposit back after moving out?
Most states set a fixed statutory deadline - typically 14 to 60 days, median 30. Use the free deadline calculator on this site to get your exact date and what happens if the landlord misses it.