Inspection Checklists

Educational reference materials for move-in and move-out property inspections. Part of the Truescope Digital training curriculum.

Building administrator conducting a move-in inspection with a clipboard in a bright, empty residential unit
About This Resource

Why Inspections Matter

A property inspection conducted at the right time, with the right documentation, is one of the most protective tools available to a property manager. It creates a clear, shared record of the property's condition that both the owner and tenant can refer to throughout the tenancy and at the end of it.

These checklists are educational reference materials developed as part of the Truescope Digital training curriculum. They are designed to illustrate what a thorough inspection process covers. They are not legal documents and do not substitute for professional legal advice.

Entry and Common Areas

  • Front door condition, locks, and hardware
  • Walls and ceiling condition in entryway
  • Flooring condition and any visible damage
  • Light fixtures and switch functionality
  • Window condition, locks, and screens

Living and Bedroom Areas

  • Wall surfaces, paint condition, and marks
  • Ceiling condition and any water stains
  • Floor covering condition throughout
  • Closet doors, shelving, and hardware
  • Air conditioning unit condition and function
  • Electrical outlets and switch plates

Kitchen

  • Cabinet doors, hinges, and condition
  • Countertop surface condition
  • Sink, faucet, and drain function
  • Appliances included (if any) and their condition
  • Tile or floor condition in kitchen area

Bathroom

  • Toilet function and condition
  • Shower or tub condition and grout
  • Sink, faucet, and drain function
  • Tile condition and any cracking
  • Exhaust fan function

Utilities and Systems

  • Electrical panel location and condition
  • Water heater condition and function
  • Water meter reading at move-in
  • Electric meter reading at move-in

Documentation Notes

  • Photos taken of all rooms and key areas
  • Photos of any pre-existing damage noted
  • Tenant signature on inspection form
  • Copy of completed checklist given to tenant

Entry and Common Areas

  • All keys and access cards returned
  • Door locks and hardware condition
  • Walls and ceiling condition vs. move-in record
  • Flooring condition and any new damage
  • Windows and screens condition

Cleanliness Assessment

  • All rooms cleaned and cleared of belongings
  • Kitchen surfaces, appliances cleaned
  • Bathroom fixtures cleaned
  • Floors swept or mopped throughout
  • Garbage removed from all areas

Damage Assessment

  • Compare condition to move-in photos and notes
  • Document any new damage with photos
  • Distinguish damage from normal wear and tear
  • Note any items missing vs. move-in inventory

Utility Readings

  • Final water meter reading recorded
  • Final electric meter reading recorded
  • Outstanding utility balances confirmed

Security Deposit Review

  • Damage costs estimated and documented
  • Outstanding rent or utility balances noted
  • Deposit reconciliation statement prepared
  • Tenant informed of deposit disposition timeline

Move-Out Documentation

  • Move-out inspection form completed
  • Photos archived alongside move-in photos
  • Tenant signature on move-out form
  • Copy provided to tenant for records

Educational Reference Only. These checklists are provided as part of the Truescope Digital training curriculum for educational purposes. They are not legal documents and do not constitute legal advice. Property managers should consult qualified legal counsel for guidance specific to their situation and jurisdiction.

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