Rental move-in checklist
A cleaner move-in handoff before the new-tenant texts begin.
The first day sets the paper trail for the whole tenancy. Use this starter checklist to cover condition, keys, utilities, safety basics, and expectations before possession changes hands.
- Built for small landlords managing 1 to 10 units.
- Focused on the operational handoff, not state-specific legal forms.
- Easy to use alongside your lease and move-in condition report.
Free starter checklist
Cover these before you hand over the keys.
- Finish repairs and cleaning before the condition walk-through starts.
- Photograph every room, appliance, fixture, floor, wall, closet, and exterior area.
- Complete and sign the move-in condition report with the tenant.
- Record every key, fob, remote, mailbox key, parking pass, and access code issued.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, locks, windows, plumbing, and major appliances.
- Confirm utility transfer details and any owner-paid services.
- Show the tenant shutoffs, breaker panel, filters, trash process, and emergency contacts.
- Review how to submit maintenance requests and what counts as an emergency.
- Put rent timing, payment method, contact rules, and property-specific reminders in writing.
- Save the signed report, photos, key record, and handoff notes in one property folder.
Why the bundle exists
The free list handles move-in day. The bundle handles the full tenant cycle.
Use the complete set when you want the same calm process before move-in, during maintenance, at move-out, and through the turnover between tenants.
Plain-English caveat
This is an operational checklist, not legal advice or a substitute for your lease, local disclosures, habitability rules, or state-specific condition forms.