What Landlords Look for During Move-Out Inspections
Moving into a new rental can be an exciting adventure. It’s all about establishing your new world and embracing new choices. On the other end of the spectrum, you have to balance the responsibilities of packing up your world, moving out and then preparing your former rental for that final walkthrough. Even the best of renters dread this part of the process as it gives a landlord the opportunity to inspect your stay and consider whether deductions from the security deposit are necessary or justified.
If you’re moving out and that walkthrough is coming, be comforted by the fact that most landlords are not looking for perfection. A little wear and tear is generally expected. This might then prompt the question: What are landlords looking for during move-out inspections? Here’s a quick list of what to expect when they’re inspecting.
Your Move-Out Inspection Checklist
Topping our move-out inspection checklist is cleanliness. This is all on you. A rental unit might be empty, but if there is still food in the fridge, grease in the oven, soap residue in the bathroom or floors that beg for a vacuum or mop, then this might trigger a cleaning charge. Worth noting is the fact that kitchens and bathrooms often receive the most attention. When it comes to these highly used and personal spaces, landlords will be paying close attention to possible stains, mildew, mold and lingering odors.
Flooring is also an important checkpoint. Here, you can be sure that carpets, linoleum, wood and tile floors will be inspected for stains, burns, pet odors, gouged wood and/or chipped tiles. Carpet cleaning, and even carpet replacement, is not a wholly expensive procedure but if you are responsible for carpet damage then you should expect that to impact your deposit.
Included appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, freezers, dishwashers, washers and dryers will also attract attention from inspectors. Here, landlords will want to know about any broken parts, broken shelves, damaged seals or excessive buildup due to a lack of cleaning. If you’re interested in reclaiming as much of your deposit as possible, you’d benefit from giving these appliances some attention prior to your move-out audit.
Attached garages, patios, yards and storage areas will also likely be reviewed. Other points of interest during a security deposit inspection include doors, windows, blinds, light fixtures, outlet covers and cabinetry hardware. Garage remotes and fobs? If they want them back, you can be assured that they will need to be in working order. It might seem a small thing, but rekeying or lock replacement is an expense that will fall back on you and affect your rental deposit.
What About Normal Wear and Tear vs. Actual Damage?
This is often a point of contention during most security deposit inspections. So what is considered to be normal wear and tear? Generally speaking, this refers to deterioration that occurs naturally over time and by way of ordinary or daily use. Even if you have taken excellent or even reasonable care of the property, wear and tear is expected.
Examples of normal wear and tear you shouldn’t stress about include faded paint, worn carpet in high-traffic areas, loose handles and minor scuff marks. Damage, on the other hand, is usually the result of neglect, misuse, accidents or the dreaded unauthorized alteration. These may include large holes in walls, broken windows, blatantly stained carpets, cracked tiles, ripped blinds or drapes and any damage caused by pets. A proper landlord will take into account the actual age and usefulness of damaged items when it comes to determining the cost of replacement or repair.
Documentation and Security Deposits
It might help you to know that a security deposit inspection generally relies on documentation and not so much on memory. Landlords tend to use a standardized move-out inspection checklist. They will compare the property against the move-in report. This often involves photos or videos of any issues they believe might go beyond ordinary wear and tear.
It is also worth noting that some states will require a landlord to perform a “pre-move-out” inspection. The purpose of this is to give tenants a chance to correct problems or concerns before the final walkthrough. This is done to encourage cooperation and avoid arguments and litigation. It also prohibits any unusual or even unnecessary surprises during the actual security deposit inspection.
How To Prepare for Your Move-Out Inspection
Everyone wants a smooth move-out. Now that you know what landlords look for during move-out inspections, the next thing to do is make sure you are prepared. This means not waiting until the last day of your lease. Your best plan is to start prepping and cleaning right away.
A useful approach is to prepare one room at a time. Remove all personal belongings, clean each room thoroughly and patch minor wall damage if needed and as allowed. You might also take it upon yourself to replace burned-out bulbs and make sure those larger appliances are empty and wiped down. A little prep ahead of time can reduce the potential for misunderstandings while also improving your chances of securing a full or nearly full refund of your security deposit.
We hope this helps you secure your full deposit, and if you’re reading this post, it likely means that you have a move on the horizon. Whether you’re moving out of a residential or commercial space, IMS Relocation is here to help. With more than 30 years of moving experience, we know how to get you across the city, state and country. Take a closer look at our five-star rating and reviews and reach out to one of our moving experts and ask for your free quote today.
