Getting tenants to move into your property is more than just signing a lease and setting a move-in date. A key component that doesn’t involve a lot of paperwork is a property walkthrough.
It’s best to do it before anyone moves in, and again after they move out, which is when everyone (landlord and tenant) should pay attention to the condition of the property.
Because it’s important to check everything, it’s helpful to have a rental walkthrough checklist. Don’t expect your tenants to carry one with them – as a landlord, carry one to protect yourself and your property.
When to conduct a tenancy walkthrough with your tenants
There are two times you should conduct a walkthrough of your property – before the new tenant moves in and immediately after they move out. Keeping both inspections on the same rental inspection checklist will give you an accurate picture of how well the tenant is caring for the property.
A pre-move-in walkthrough can help you understand what to expect in your home. You will notice the damage that is present (if any). Then see if things get beyond normal wear and tear once your tenant moves out.
Keeping the results of each exercise on the same list makes it easier to notice the changes. If a bedroom door frame was in pristine condition before move-in but is filled with sizable scratches after move-out, you know you can charge the tenant for repairs.
Thankfully, with a tenant’s security deposit, it’s easy to manage repair reimbursement without having to wait for funds.
How to conduct a rental walkthrough
A rental property walkthrough should be conducted with your tenants. This is an opportunity for both of you to protect yourselves from paying damages that you are not responsible for. Your tenants don’t want to be charged for problems that already exist in the home, and you don’t want them to dispute repairs that you feel should be covered by the security deposit.
Once you’ve set up a time with your tenant, prepare your own landlord checklist. Your tenant may have a copy as well, but please let them know that your copy (which both parties will sign) will go into your file.
6 Steps to the Rental Walkthrough Checklist
As you walk by and observe, take notes, pictures, and videos of anything out of the ordinary in your home. Make sure to take note of things that tenants notice and things that you see yourself. It’s a good idea to put all the information directly into the list so everything is in one place. These photos can provide additional evidence if necessary later. Following these steps will ensure you complete a thorough walkthrough.
1. Check certain items in each room
No matter which room you live in your rental, there are certain areas you should always inspect. Most of these will be subject to normal wear and tear, so please consider this when using them.
You can take note of common minor flaws, but only document them in detail when major problems arise. For example, if the previous tenant hung a heavy mirror on the wall, leaving a large hole in the wall, be sure to write it down (and make time to fix it).
In general, you should look for the following in each room:
- ground
- wall
- ceiling
- Door
- Windows, screens, window frames
- lamps
- Sockets and switches
- Bulb
Take note of anything you can fix or replace immediately and propose solutions before the tenant moves in (if possible). When you do this, go back to your rental walkthrough checklist and cross it off as a question.
2. Check security
You will also want to check the safety equipment in your rental property, in the relevant rooms. This means testing smoke detectors and checking to make sure any fire extinguishers have not expired. This should also be a particular concern for your tenants, as whether or not all security equipment is functioning properly will have a direct impact on them and their belongings.
3. Test pipeline
In bathrooms and kitchens, be sure to check for leaks and water damage, and also test that surfaces and toilets are functioning properly. Check the tub and sink to make sure there aren’t any large cracks or chips.
If your rental property has a hose hookup outside, it’s a good idea to check that as well. Whether or not there’s a hose there, test the faucet to make sure it’s working properly and not leaking.
4. Turn on/off electrical appliances
While you are in the kitchen, test all appliances with the tenant present. Open everything up and show them how it works, but also how it works. This includes the stove, oven, microwave (if you have one), dishwasher, refrigerator, and washer and dryer.
5. Open cabinets and drawers
Since wear and tear can occur anywhere, inspect all cabinets and drawers by opening and closing them. Make sure the pull and handle are still firmly attached and the hinges are working properly. Everything should be completely closed and not look loose.
You should also make sure drawers, cabinets, and closets are empty when you open these items. Delete anything you might find, although you don’t have to write it on the list.
6. Note anything unique about your property
If your rental property has any unique features, such as stairs, backyards, garages, decks or balconies, make sure they are part of your walkthrough as well. Note any issues found in these areas and check to make sure everything is working properly and safely.
Conduct a thorough rental walkthrough
Conducting a thorough walkthrough of your property before tenants move in and after they move out will allow everything to be noticed. However, this may not be the only time you need a thorough inspection of your property. Don’t neglect a mid-tenancy home inspection if you suspect any issues with your tenants. This allows you to make repairs as needed without having to wait until the end of the lease.
No matter how often you need to put together a handy rental inspection checklist, careful observation and attention to detail will help you maintain your property. It also makes it easier to properly allocate repair costs when they are due.
