Move-In Inspection Checklist
Document the condition of your rental to protect your security deposit
California Requirements
- •CA law (AB 2801) will require landlords to provide move-in photos starting April 2025
- •Take your own timestamped photos regardless
- •Request a written acknowledgment of condition
- •Send a copy to landlord via email for documentation
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)
Pro Tips for Your Move-In Inspection
Documentation Tips
- ✓Take photos/video of EVERYTHING, even if it looks fine
- ✓Include timestamps in your photos
- ✓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
- ✓Store photos in cloud storage (not just your phone)
- ✓Keep all documentation until deposit is returned
- ✓Report any issues to landlord in writing immediately