Residential Rental Walk-through Checklist

Once you have found the perfect rental apartment, condo or house, make sure that you fill out a detailed condition summary before you sign the lease. This document ensures that you have checked to determine if everything is in working order before you move in and, at the end of the lease, that you are not charged for pre-existing defects or damages.

With a checklist in hand, walk through the apartment room by room with your landlord. If your landlord does not have a checklist, you can create your own or download the one below.

Point out — and photograph — excessive wear or unsatisfactory condition of floors, walls, carpeting, window coverings, etc. Raise and lower shades and blinds. Be specific about holes in walls, tears in fabric, scratches on cabinets or wood trim, peeling paint or other problems, no matter how minor they may seem at the time.

Confirm that all light fixtures and toilets are in good working order. Turn on the faucets in the sinks and showers to make sure that there is sufficient water pressure. Check for leaks in and under sinks and around plumbing fixtures. Look at the ceiling, walls and floors for water stains or signs of mildew, mold and pest infestation.

Inspect windows and doors to make sure that they open and lock properly, that screens are not broken and that there are no chips or cracks in the glass. Test the appliances, smoke detectors, air-conditioning and heating systems. Walk outside and note the condition of the walkway, siding, roof, stairway, porch, balcony or other areas for which you would be responsible.

Following the inspection, have your landlord sign the checklist as proof of the agreed-upon condition of the property. Clarify the terms of the security deposit. Determine who is responsible for repairs and what is considered normal ‘wear and tear’ while you reside there.

Take the time before you move so as to reduce the chance of disagreement when you move out.

Rental Walkthrough Checklist

Bathroom	Condition: Damaged/clean/dirty/broken/cracks	Date	Done
Plumbing; check the faucets, drains, and toilet for leaks or other issues	Notes:
Floors, walls, ceilings; check for water damage, mold, mildew, and cracks, and pay close attention to the grout and tiling
Mirrors; note any cracks
Door and windows; check for water damage, sealing problems, check lock, screens
Light fixtures and electrical outlets; exhaust fan
Small fixtures such as towel racks, toilet paper holder
Kitchen	Condition: Damaged/clean/dirty/broken/cracks	Date	Done
Stove	Notes
Refrigerator
Dishwasher
Sink and faucets (particularly rust) and drain, especially under the sink
Garbage disposal
Oven hood or exhaust fans
Cabinets; check shelves, handles, water or steam damage, leaks under the sink
Countertops; check for chips or cracks, marks or stains
Floors, walls, ceilings; check for water damage, mold, holes or cracks, chipped paint
Light fixtures and electrical outlets
Doors and windows; pay particular attention to the locks, screens
Living Room and Bedrooms	Condition: Damaged/clean/dirty/stains/broken	Date	Done
Floors, walls, ceilings; check for scratches, stains on carpet, chipped paint, nail holes in the wall, cracks in the walls or ceiling, mold or mildew damage	Notes:
Doors and windows; pay particular attention to the locks, screens
Light fixtures and electrical outlets
Blinds or window treatments
Overall/Miscellaneous	Condition: Broken/clean/dirty/damaged	Date	Done
Heating and air conditioning	Notes
Closets; check shelves, mirrors, rods, door and lock
Smoke detectors
Fireplace
Phone and cable jacks
Check the exterior of rental house for all similar issues
Signs of pest infestation – insects, rodents, etc.
Screens / Storm Windows

Exploring Residential Rental Walk-through Checklist: Case Studies

Case Study 1: Failure to Document Pre-existing Damages

In this case study, a tenant fails to thoroughly document pre-existing damages during the walk-through with the landlord. As a result, the tenant is held responsible for damages that were present before they moved in. The case highlights the importance of being meticulous during the walk-through and ensuring that all damages are properly recorded and acknowledged by both parties.

Case Study 2: Dispute over Normal Wear and Tear

In this case study, a tenant and landlord disagree on what constitutes normal wear and tear versus tenant-caused damages. The tenant claims that certain damages are a result of normal use and should not be deducted from their security deposit.

The case highlights the need for clear communication and understanding between tenants and landlords regarding the definition of normal wear and tear and the responsibilities for repairs and maintenance.

Case Study 3: Lack of Signed Checklist Leads to Security Deposit Dispute

In this case study, the landlord fails to sign the checklist provided by the tenant after the walk-through. When the tenant moves out, the landlord makes deductions from the security deposit for damages that were already present. However, without the signed checklist as proof of the agreed-upon condition, the tenant faces difficulties in disputing the deductions.

The case emphasizes the importance of obtaining a signed checklist to protect both tenants and landlords in security deposit disputes.

Case Study 4: Failure to Address Maintenance Issues

In this case study, a tenant discovers several maintenance issues during the walk-through but fails to address them with the landlord. As a result, the tenant experiences ongoing difficulties and discomfort throughout the lease term. The case underscores the significance of promptly reporting and addressing maintenance issues to ensure a habitable living environment and avoid potential conflicts with the landlord.