A tenant move-out checklist is something that every landlord should strongly consider providing to their tenants. 

Doing so helps ensure both parties are on the same page regarding the tenant’s move-out responsibilities. That way, you avoid potential disputes regarding the condition of the rental unit upon the tenants' moving out.

What is a tenant move-out checklist?

A tenant move-out checklist, also sometimes called a tenant move-out cleaning checklist, specifies a list of tasks that the tenant must do before turning over the apartment to you. 

This type of landlord-tenant checklist is used during the move-out inspection to document the condition of the rental property before the next tenants move in. It’s also used to determine whether or not the tenants who are moving back get their security deposit back in full.

We put together a tenant move-out checklist template so you don’t have to. You can use it as is or modify it to suit your needs.

>> Download Our Free Move-Out Checklist <<

What does a move-out checklist include?

There are many different types of move-out checklists. Some landlords like to break down their rental properties by room and specify different cleaning and maintenance tasks for each area. Others provide more general guidelines for how to leave their rental units.

Some of the most important move-out tasks you can include on a checklist are:

  • Floor cleaning (vacuuming carpet, mopping, removing any stains)

  • Floor repair and maintenance (fixing holes in carpets, repairing broken tiles)

  • Cleaning dirt and dust from the walls

  • Filling any holes in the walls

  • Cleaning windows and blinds

  • Making sure all doors and windows work properly

  • Washing windows

  • Cleaning all areas of the kitchen, including appliances

  • Making sure all drains are clean and functioning

  • Bathroom cleaning (including mold and mildew removal)

  • Clearing out all belongings and trash

  • Dusting and cleaning light fixtures

Why is it important to provide this checklist?

Providing a move-out checklist can help protect both parties from disputes regarding the condition of the apartment and the security deposit. 

By outlining what your tenants are responsible for cleaning and repairing when they move out, iyou can help  help minimize confusion about what’s expected. 

Follow the rules of the lease agreement

Ideally, you should include your tenant move-out checklist as an addendum in your lease agreement. This helps ensure that your tenant is aware of the move-out process and expectations right from the start.

If tenants fail to complete the checklist, there will be no doubt about what was expected, and you may be within your rights to withhold some or all of their security deposit to cover move-out cleaning and repairs.

In other words, attaching the checklist as part of the original lease agreement can make it more legally binding and provides the best protection for both you and your tenants.

How to conduct the inspection (schedule ahead of time)

As soon as your tenants inform you that they will be moving out, talk to them to schedule a date and time for a move-out inspection. 

Scheduling the inspection well ahead of time will help give your tenants plenty of time to complete the move-out checklist.

On the day of the inspection, bring your own printed copy of the checklist and use it to inspect all the different areas of the house. Make notes next to anything on the checklist that was not completed. You can use abbreviations like “NC” for “needs cleaning” to make this easy.

After the inspection, let your tenants know if there is anything they missed or did not complete to your satisfaction, so they have a chance to do it.

If they don’t comply, you can inform them how much of their security deposit you will need to withhold to cover the costs of cleaning or repairs yourself.

The bottom line 

A tenant move-out checklist is an essential document that helps ensure your rental property stays in good condition and is clean and functional for the next tenants, minimizing turnover time. 

Key takeaways of best practices:

  • Move-out checklists are meant to protect both tenants and landlords

  • Checklists can reduce the chances of security deposit disputes

  • It is wise to  include the checklist as an addendum in the lease agreement

  • Your checklist can be highly detailed or provide general guidelines

  • Make sure to include all areas of the apartment that you want cleaned

  • Conduct a move-out inspection using a copy of the checklist to document the condition of the unit

 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or insurance advice. Underwriting practices, tools, and criteria may vary by insurance carrier and are subject to change. The examples provided are not exhaustive and may not reflect the specific underwriting process used for your property. Honeycomb Insurance does not guarantee that addressing these items will result in coverage or favorable pricing. For guidance specific to your situation, please consult with a licensed insurance professional. This content is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, an insurance broker-client relationship.