What Landlords Really Check for During a Move-Out Inspection
Once tenants decide to depart from their rented property, they should begin property assessment. One of the first steps is to make sure that you understand the lease agreement and what the landlord will check during the move-out inspection.
Rental move-out inspections are done to determine whether the tenant should receive the full, partial, or none of their security deposit back based on cleaning issues or damage to the property.
What Is a Move-Out Inspection?
Move-out inspections are reviews conducted by the landlord or their property manager to check for damages and the condition of the unit after a tenant leaves During this inspection they will determine the cost of any repairs and calculate the appropriate security deposit refund.
There are usually two kinds of inspection: a pre-move and a move-out inspection. The pre-move-out inspection is optional, whereas the move-out inspection is mandatory.
The inspection includes several small aspects of a home, from cleanliness to maintenance. Most landlords follow a thorough checklist to document any costs they must deduct for repairs or cleaning. Tenants need to keep the rental property in good condition at the start to get their security deposit back from the landlord. If you want to avoid deductions from your security deposit, consider apartment move out cleaning services to ensure the property meets cleanliness standards, saving you time and effort.
Move-Out Inspection Checklist: What Landlords Check
General Cleanliness and Condition
A move-out inspection checklist helps landlords evaluate whether the rental unit is in good condition before a tenant leaves. A complete and clean state is among the essential elements of this evaluation. The property should be vacant of dust with no signs of dirt and free from trash, while all personal items must be removed.
Unclaimed garbage, furniture, and unwanted household items trigger cleaning expenses and security deposit reductions. Tenants must leave the property in the same condition as it was received. So if light bulbs are burnt out or smoke detectors need new batteries during their tenancy those should be replaced.
The move-out checklist for landlords demands thorough inspections of every room to validate its clean and proper state of maintenance. Kitchen counters and floors, bathrooms, and closets are the primary concerns regarding move-out inspections by landlords. Examining a space for smells takes priority for landlords, especially when animals have caused harm.
Tenants must vacuum and clean the carpet while properly removing leftover waste materials. Hidden areas and cabinets underneath appliances should receive cleaning attention to avoid problems arising during the final inspection.
Walls and Paint Condition
The move-out checklist must identify any damage to the walls. Slight scuff marks and tiny holes created by picture frames do not qualify as compensation grounds. However, large holes combined with deep scratches alongside significant stains will result in money being deducted from the security deposit. This can include the costs of repainting when extensive paint chipping, crayon markings, and major staining affect the condition of the walls.
Wall painting without permission or using multiple dark-colored coatings may lead to additional charges the tenant pays. Maintaining the wall and repairing the initial damage will decrease the likelihood of being charged additional expenses by the landlord.
Carpets and Flooring
A move-out walkthrough inspection includes an assessment of the flooring, checking for damage, stains, and excessive wear. Landlords typically expect carpets to be vacuumed and free of dirt and debris.
If stains or odors cannot be removed through regular cleaning, tenants may be responsible for addressing them. Some leases require tenants with pets to steam clean carpets before returning the home to the landlord.
The cleaning process also includes sweeping and mopping hard surface floors, followed by a tile and grout inspection to check for blemishes. Security deposit deductions may occur if deep scratches, water damage, or broken tiles—beyond normal wear and tear—are found.
Failure to properly clean the unit before moving out can result in significant deductions, often exceeding the cost of a standard cleaning. If persistent odors remain, professional treatment may be required. These services use specialized tools to clean efficiently, allowing tenants to focus on other move-out tasks. However, if carpets have extensive stains or severe damage, the landlord may need to replace them, which could also lead to deductions from the security deposit.
Kitchen & Appliances
During a move-out inspection, landlords assess the condition of kitchen appliances and surfaces using a checklist. All of the appliances must be deep-cleaned to remove grease, food residue, and stains. Inside the oven, landlords check for baked-in grease, while refrigerator inspections focus on leftover food and potential mold.
Landlords also inspect stovetops for grease buildup, microwaves for interior cleanliness, and dishwashers for food remnants. All drawers and cabinets must be emptied and wiped down, and countertops should be free of stains and water damage. Proper cleaning of these areas is crucial to avoid deductions from the security deposit.
Bathroom Cleanliness & Plumbing
When landlords inspect bathrooms, they check cleanliness and any signs of harm. Sinks, tubs, showers, and toilets are the main areas of inspection concern. The presence of water stains, together with soap scum and mold growth adjacent to tiles or grout, can trigger security deposit deductions. Mirrors and lighting should also receive cleaning attention in addition to the removal of all toiletry items.
A move-out inspection report often highlights plumbing issues, such as leaking faucets, slow-draining sinks, or water damage around the toilet. Leaks are typically the landlord’s responsibility. However, if the tenant didn’t notify the landlord of a leak they may be held responsible for the additional damage caused that could have been avoided if reported immediately.
Tenants who spend their time correctly maintaining their living space before leaving will prevent themselves from paying additional cleaning and repair expenses.
Windows, Doors, & Locks
Landlords will inspect windows, doors, and locks to verify property safety while evaluating the overall building condition. Windows must operate normally, and frames should be intact without damage to their structures.
The move-out inspection is detailed. The door frames and handles are examined for signs of damage. All door scuff marks should be cleaned, and the hinges should be inspected to ensure they operate correctly. Before moving, tenants should report any door issues that cause difficulty opening or closing to their landlord when they occur, not at move-out.
During the move-out walkthrough inspection, locks will be evaluated. Each key must be returned to the landlord, and all locks must operate without problems. The tenant must also replace unauthorized new locks before leaving the property. If keys are not returned, such as a mailbox key, the tenant may be charged for replacement.
Pre-Move-Out Inspection: Your Chance to Fix Issues Early
A pre-move-out inspection is an optional but valuable step that allows tenants to identify and fix potential issues before the final inspection. A landlord may be willing to do an informal inspection and point out items that need to be addressed before moving out, such as holes in the wall.
During a pre-move-out inspection, landlords may point out areas requiring cleaning or minor repairs, such as wall scuffs, carpet stains, or broken blinds. The feedback lets tenants handle potential issues that minimize unexpected security deposit deductions.
By conducting this inspection one to two weeks before their move-out date tenants may be able to save money and time. Most landlords do not provide this service, but asking for it delivers advantages by verifying property compliance with rental requirements before the final inspection occurs. Just keep in mind if a tenant is still residing in the property a landlord may not be able to see hidden damage.
Move-Out Inspection Report: What It Includes
A move-out inspection report is a written record of a rental property’s condition after a tenant moves out. It helps landlords document property damage, cleanliness issues, and maintenance concerns to determine the security deposit refund. The report typically includes photos along with descriptions of repair areas and estimated restoration costs.
The rental inspection involves three key aspects: landlords check wear and tear beyond everyday use and approve property modifications and sanitary standards. The property condition during the move-out process gets assessed against its original state as documented in the move-in inspection documentation. Various problems exceeding regular property usage, like carpet stains, broken fixtures, and wall damage, may trigger reductions in the security deposit.
A landlord walkthrough checklist helps determine refund amounts by categorizing issues into tenant responsibilities and expected property aging. When deducting money from the security deposit, the landlord must prepare an itemized expenses list and stated repair costs.
How to Get Your Security Deposit Back
Getting your security deposit back is simple—return the property in the same condition as when you received it. If issues arise during the lease that are the landlord’s responsibility, such as a leaky faucet or roof, report them immediately. Failure to do so could make you liable for any resulting damage. Small issues can quickly turn into costly repairs if left unaddressed.
If your landlord didn’t conduct a pre-move-in inspection with you, do one yourself. Take pictures and document every issue, then email it to the landlord to create a paper trail. This documentation can protect you from being charged for pre-existing damage, such as stains on the carpet.
Some landlords may overlook or be unaware of certain issues when a tenant moves in. To avoid disputes, keep detailed records and photographs of any problems that arise. Note what the issue was, when it occurred, when you contacted the landlord, and whether or not it was resolved.
Taking these proactive steps ensures you have evidence if any disagreements arise regarding property conditions, making it easier to secure the full return of your security deposit.
Final Thoughts
A move-out inspection is a critical step in the rental process, determining whether tenants receive their full security deposit back. Landlords assess cleanliness, maintenance, and damages beyond normal wear and tear, using detailed checklists to document any necessary deductions.
To avoid unexpected costs, tenants should thoroughly clean and maintain the rental unit before moving out, addressing any issues outlined in their lease. Conducting a pre-move-out inspection, keeping detailed records, and promptly reporting maintenance concerns can help prevent disputes and ensure a smooth move-out process.
By taking these steps, tenants can leave their rental in good condition, protect their deposit, and transition to their next home with confidence.
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About the Author
Top Wellington Realtor, Michelle Gibson, wrote: “What Landlords Really Check for During a Move-Out Inspection”
Michelle has been specializing in residential real estate since 2001 throughout Wellington Florida and the surrounding area. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell or rent she will guide you through the entire real estate transaction. If you’re ready to put Michelle’s knowledge and expertise to work for you call or e-mail her today.
Areas of service include Wellington, Lake Worth, Royal Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, West Palm Beach, Loxahatchee, Greenacres, and more.
