3 Practices Landlords Should Incorporate During Move-In Inspection

1.  Walk the entire property with the Tenant.

Similarly to walking around a car rental checking for scrapes and dents, it is an important process to take your new Tenant through the property to make sure you and your Tenant are on the same page when it come to the condition of your unit upon move in. Be as thorough as possible and take notes on the condition of everything that could possibly see any wear and tear during the course of the lease. I think it’s important to note such items as: fence condition, screens, doors, paint colours, lighting fixtures, mirrors vanities etc. You get the idea! You want your Tenant to understand that you have specific documentation on the condition of the property before they move in.

2. Take Pictures

Fairly straightforward, taking pictures as you walk the property with your Tenant serves a few purposes. If you are taking pictures of the condition of the property, it will make an easy comparison from when they move in, to when they leave if there are any disputes. Secondly, taking pictures in front of the Tenants reiterates the fact that you are documenting the property and in most cases will cause the Tenant to take better care of the property during their Tenancy.

3. Include A Replacement Cost Worksheet  

This is something that I have implemented recently that can alleviate any disputes at the end of the tenancy. Tenants know that if they leave a hole in the wall it will cost them $50. If the blinds are broken, it will cost them $40. Create a list of common items that you find need replacing or repair after the tenancy is complete.