Move-In Inspection Checklist
Document the condition of your rental to protect your security deposit
California move-in rules and practical steps
- •The cited statewide source does not identify a mandatory move-in checklist. A lease or local rule may add requirements, and a written condition record can still help document the starting condition.
- •The cited move-in photo requirement applies to covered tenancies beginning on or after Jul 1, 2025.
- •Photograph each room, fixture, appliance, and any existing damage at move-in.
- •Send the completed record to the landlord and keep proof of when it was sent.
Source: Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5
Living Areas
Applies to: Living Room, Dining Room, Hallways
Walls (marks, holes, paint condition)
Ceiling (stains, cracks, texture)
Flooring (scratches, stains, damage)
Baseboards (condition, gaps)
Light fixtures (working, clean)
Light switches (working)
Electrical outlets (working, covers intact)
Windows (cracks, seals, locks)
Window screens (tears, missing)
Window blinds/coverings (condition)
Doors (condition, locks, hinges)
Closet doors (condition, tracks)
Smoke detectors (present, working)
CO detectors (present, working)
HVAC vents (clean, dampers work)
Thermostat (working)
Kitchen
Applies to: Kitchen
Countertops (chips, stains, burns)
Cabinets (doors, drawers, hardware)
Sink (stains, chips, drain)
Faucet (leaks, water pressure)
Garbage disposal (working)
Dishwasher (working, clean)
Refrigerator (working, clean, ice maker)
Freezer (working, clean)
Stove/Range (burners, oven, clean)
Range hood/Exhaust (working, filter)
Microwave (working, clean)
Flooring (condition)
Walls (grease stains, marks)
Lighting (working)
Electrical outlets (GFCI working)
Windows (condition)
Bathrooms
Applies to: Primary Bath, Secondary Bath, Half Bath
Toilet (working, clean, no leaks)
Toilet seat (condition)
Sink (stains, chips, drain)
Faucet (leaks, water pressure)
Vanity/Cabinet (condition)
Mirror (cracks, mounting)
Bathtub/Shower (chips, stains, caulk)
Shower door/Curtain rod (condition)
Showerhead (working, clean)
Tile/Grout (cracks, mold, missing)
Exhaust fan (working)
Electrical outlets (GFCI working)
Towel bars/Hooks (secure)
Medicine cabinet (condition)
Flooring (condition)
Walls (water damage, mold)
Bedrooms
Applies to: Primary Bedroom, Bedroom 2, Bedroom 3
Walls (marks, holes, paint)
Ceiling (stains, cracks)
Flooring/Carpet (stains, wear)
Closet (shelves, rods, doors)
Windows (cracks, locks, screens)
Window coverings (condition)
Light fixtures (working)
Electrical outlets (working)
Ceiling fan (working, blades)
Smoke detector (present, working)
Doors (condition, locks)
Exterior/Other
Applies to: Entry, Patio/Balcony, Garage, Storage
Front door (condition, locks, deadbolt)
Door frame (condition)
Mailbox (working, key)
Porch light (working)
Doorbell (working)
Patio/Balcony (condition, railing)
Garage door (working, opener)
Parking space (assigned, condition)
Storage unit (condition, lock)
Keys provided (door, mail, garage, gate)
Gate/Intercom (working)
Landscaping responsibility
Utilities & Systems
Applies to: Throughout
Water heater (working, temperature)
HVAC system (heating works)
HVAC system (cooling works)
Air filter (clean, size noted)
Circuit breaker panel (labeled)
Water shutoff valve (location)
Gas shutoff valve (location)
Washer connections (if applicable)
Dryer vent (clean, connected)
Internet/Cable connections (working)
Fire extinguisher (if provided)
Practical Tips for Your Move-In Inspection
Documentation Tips
- ✓Photograph each room, including areas with no obvious damage
- ✓Keep the original files and record the date they were taken
- ✓Photograph walls, floors, ceilings, and inside closets
- ✓Test all appliances and document any issues
- ✓Run water in all sinks, tubs, and showers
After the Inspection
- ✓Email a copy to your landlord for records
- ✓Request their signature or written acknowledgment
- ✓Keep a backup somewhere you control, not only on your phone
- ✓Keep all documentation until deposit is returned
- ✓Report existing damage or maintenance issues in writing promptly
Keep the record under your control
Print or save this checklist, take date-preserving photos, and keep copies of every condition report you exchange with the landlord.