Walk the Walk – What to Look for Before Moving In

You’ve found a rental! You’ve applied and great news! You’ve been accepted. Before you move into a rental property, it is essential that you do a walkthrough with the landlord or property manager. Appearances can be deceiving, so this gives you the opportunity to ensure the property is in good condition and very importantly, also allows you to document any issues that are already present, protecting you as a renter at the end of your lease. So, what should you look for? Well, here’s a checklist. 

Bathrooms 

• Does the shower, sink and toilet work properly?
• Is anything chipped, scratched, or otherwise damaged?
• Are there any leaks?

Bedrooms

• Are there any visible leaks?
• Are the blinds in good condition?
• Are the shelves in the closet damaged?
• If there is an attached mirror, is it properly hung or damaged?

Kitchen

• Do all the appliances work and is there any cosmetic damage?
• Is there any damage to the cabinets or shelving?
• Are there any leaks present?

General Checks

• Are there any cracks, peeled paint, or damaged walls?
• Are the outlets, lamps, ceiling fans in working order?
• Is there any stains or damage to the floors?
• Are the blinds or draperies damaged?
• Is there any damage to the windows and doors and do they secure properly?
• Does the HVAC system work?

If you find anything disconcerting during your inspection, it’s essential to address the issues prior to signing any lease. Renter Tip – bring a camera and flashlight with you. Document any issues you find and share them with the property manager or owner.