What To Include In A Move Out Checklist

The tenant-landlord relationship can be a complicated one. While you’d love to trust the person you’re renting from, it’s also a good idea to keep yourself protected by documenting various inevitable practices like moving in or moving out. Landlords tend to prefer documentation too—it can be a pro for both parties when done correctly.

So, how can you use a tenant move out checklist in the way that each party benefits?

What is a Tenant Move Out Checklist?

A tenant move out checklist is a helpful tool that itemizes the condition of the property and allows the tenant to record where any damage may have occurred throughout the lease term. A move out checklist may also allow the landlord to set out steps that the tenant must complete prior to completely moving out of the unit. The tenant then checks off each action they complete before they return their apartment keys.

Smart landlords include a move out checklist for tenants as an addendum to the tenant’s lease agreement, and the landlord could withhold some or all of the tenant’s security deposit for damage they are responsible for. However, keep in mind that landlords may not deduct from the security deposit for normal wear and tear to the unit.

Be sure to check your state’s security deposit return guidelines to ensure your move out checklist adheres to those parameters.

Benefits for Landlords

Tenant turnover can be expensive. Marketing your unit, screening applicants, and taking a risk on a new renter can all cut into your potential profit. One of the ways to lessen the chances of a tricky tenant is by keeping meticulous records and inventory of the unit before and after each tenant occupies it. That way, you can legally and effectively deduct from their security deposit to cover any damage they cause and save your own money for marketing and screening to get a new tenant into that space.

Not only does a move out checklist increase the chances of the tenant leaving the unit in good condition, it also identifies any damage beyond wear and tear that you can cut into their deposit for. While you may be able to notice damage without a move out checklist, streamlining the process ensures a more thorough and quicker inspection of each unit. A completed checklist also gives you a better idea the amount of cleaning and repairs you need to make before the next tenant can occupy their new home.

Benefits for Tenants

Moving is one of the inevitable stressors in every renter’s life. The month before you switch homes is full of packing into moving boxes, deadlines, and apartment searching. A move out checklist can help you keep track of your responsibilities and increase the chances of retaining your full security deposit.

Returning a clean apartment makes a huge difference in your ability to get your full deposit back. If your landlord inspects your apartment and sees a shoddy cleaning job, they have to spend more time cleaning themselves or hiring someone else to do the work. A clean post-move space also tells your landlord that you cared enough to do as you were asked—this could come in handy if you need a landlord reference for your potential new place.

Also, in the unfortunate event that a landlord deducts more than a tenant expected, they can use their move in/move out checklists to resolve any security deposit disputes. That said, if you’re a tenant, be sure to keep and organize any documents you receive from your landlord. You never know when you will need them. If you know that you tend to lose physical copies, use a scanner app to scan the documents to your phone or laptop.

Tips for Creating and Using a Tenant Move Out Checklist

To ensure that both parties’ rights are protected and that they’re being treated fairly, both landlords and tenants utilize a move-out checklist. Below are some tips regarding using a checklist for tenants to avoid conflict and ensure a smooth move out process:

• Complete the move out checklist with the tenant present. That way, potential disputes can be resolved in person while you both consider the damage in question. It’s easier to resolve issues when you both are looking at the same thing, at the same time—like deciding if that scratch on the refrigerator should be considered normal wear and tear.
• Keep photos of the property. Both parties should take and keep pictures of what the unit looked like upon move in and move out. These could come in handy if a security deposit dispute arises.

Conclusion

A tenant move-out checklist is a simple yet essential tool for landlords and tenants alike. By setting clear expectations and documenting property conditions, it streamlines move-outs, protects security deposits, and helps maintain rental properties in top shape. Implementing a move-out checklist can ultimately save landlords time, money, and potential disputes while ensuring a seamless transition for new tenants.