When new tenants move into a rental property, it’s important for both landlords and tenants to have a clear record of the property’s condition. A comprehensive inspection can prevent future disputes, protect deposits, and ensure that both parties agree on the property’s state.

Here, we outline essential tips for effectively recording and confirming your rental property’s status and identifying any necessary repairs when your new tenants move in.

Tip #1 Pre-Move-In Inspection

Before handing over the keys, arrange a time for both you, the landlord (or the property manager), and the tenant to conduct a walkthrough of the property. This provides an opportunity to inspect the home together, ensuring transparency and building a solid landlord-tenant relationship from the start.

Have a detailed checklist prepared before walking through the property. This checklist should cover:

• Walls, ceilings, floors, doors, and windows
• Kitchen and laundry appliances
• Sinks, toilets, and showers for leaks and blockages
• Lights, sockets, and switches, including outdoor lighting
• Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers

Visual evidence is key to objectively proving the condition of the property. Take comprehensive photos and videos during the inspection, capturing every room and highlighting any existing damages or irregularities. Ensure that these visuals have timestamps to establish the date when they were taken.

Tip #2 Recording and Reporting Repairs

As you conduct the walkthrough, identify and list any required repairs or maintenance tasks. This list should separate minor wear and tear from damages that require immediate attention. Share this list with the tenant and keep a copy for your records.

For any issues that require repair, get estimates for the costs involved. This can help you prioritize necessary work and budget appropriately. For tenants, understanding approximate costs can also clarify any financial responsibilities should damage occur during their tenancy.

Tip #3 Create an Official Condition Report

Following the inspection, create a formal move-in condition report that outlines the property’s current status, including any agreed-upon repairs. This document should be signed by both parties, ensuring mutual agreement and understanding.

Using digital platforms can simplify the process of creating and storing documentation. Consider using property management software for condition reports and to securely store images and videos, facilitating easy access and retrieval when needed.

Tip #4 Communication and Follow-Up

Open communication between landlords and tenants can foster trust and ensure any issues get addressed promptly. Encourage tenants to report any problems early, allowing for timely resolutions to protect both your reputation and your property value.

As part of the lease agreement, schedule regular inspections to ensure the tenants are taking good care of the property and to identify potential problems the tenants may not have noticed. These check-ins can minimize potential damages and help maintain property value over time.

Let FAS Management Handle Your Move-In Process

Need assistance with property management or tenant transitions in Maryland or DC? Don’t hesitate to contact FAS Management for professional guidance and services. Let us help you navigate the rental process smoothly and effectively with pre-move-in inspections and clear documentation to protect you and have a baseline for your property’s condition. Contact us today at (202) 337-5080.