Did you know tenants are required to leave the premises they rent, in as good as or better shape then when they moved in? But how do you know what shape it was when they moved in?
That is where the move-in report comes into play. Having a detailed move-in report will save you in the long run. You will have written documentation to hold the tenant accountable to.
Don’t be too hasty when performing the move-in. A little time allotted for precise and meticulous documentation, will go a long way in the end.
Having an established route you take when performing move-ins or outs help prevent any oversights. Many landlords start with the first room they come to when entering the house. Often it will be an entryway or living room. Now is the time where details matter; marking the entire living room as okay is severely lacking details.
Look at everything. How are the walls? Document any nails holes; are there a lot of holes or just a few? Are they concreted in one area or is throughout the living room? Do the walls need to be painted or is it brand new paint?
Once you are finished with one area continue on to another. Look at the blinds; are they clean? Do they work properly? Do the windows open and close as they should? Are the screen the right size and free from bends or holes? Is the carpet new or are there worn areas?
Now continue on this path throughout the house, make sure to check all the bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, dining room or area. Don’t forget basements, garages, and utility or laundry rooms as well.
Taking pictures of the home is always a good idea, especially focus on areas of concern or new items through the house. Documenting the outside condition is vital as well. Check the exterior lighting and fences. Is the yard alive, recently mowed or raked?
After you have finished the report; review it with your tenant. Address any issues or questions they may have. Make certain the sign and date the form, and provide them a copy for their records. Also, allow them time to report any missed details, usually about 7 days. A report of a fist size hole through a bedroom door reported three months after they move-in is not tolerable.
Thorough and well documented move-in reports are a necessary evil as a landlord, but it is one that benefits both you and your tenant. Your tenant will be protected from incurring any costs from damage that was present at the time of their move-in; and you will have documented proof of any new damage to your rental property.
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