What should be included in a move-in checklist?

A move-in checklist is a critical document used to ensure both the landlord and tenant have a clear understanding of the condition of the rental property at the time of the tenant's move-in. A detailed description of the property’s condition serves several important purposes: it helps establish accountability for any existing damages or issues and can be utilized during the move-out process to determine if any new damages occurred while the tenant occupied the property.

By documenting the state of the property upon move-in, both parties can agree on what was present and functioning, thus reducing disputes regarding security deposit deductions at the end of the lease term. This checklist typically includes notes about the condition of walls, flooring, appliances, and any existing damages, ensuring a transparent and cooperative rental experience.

Including details of the rental agreement, personal information of the tenants, or a summary of property rules does not specifically pertain to the physical condition of the property, making these other options less relevant for a move-in checklist. Instead, the core purpose of the checklist rests on recording the condition of the property itself.