Skip to main content
Renter Guide

The Move-In Checklist Your Landlord Hopes You Skip

Last updated: April 2026Researched by DepositHawk Research Team

Most renters unpack, hang some pictures, and forget about the apartment's condition until move-out day. Then the landlord charges them $1,200 for carpet that was already worn when they moved in. This checklist exists so that doesn't happen to you.

Already moved in and need to move out? See the move-out checklist → for what to do before you hand back the keys.

Section 1 — Most Important

Before you unpack anything

  • Take photos of EVERY room — walls, floors, ceilings, fixtures
  • Open every cabinet and closet, photograph inside
  • Test every faucet, light switch, outlet, and door lock
  • Check for existing damage — cracks, stains, holes, mold
  • Record a video walkthrough with narration and the date visible on screen
  • Note the condition of carpet, paint, appliances, countertops, and windows

This is the most important step. Once your furniture is in the room, the opportunity to document what was there when you arrived is gone.

Section 2

What your landlord can't charge you for later

  • Normal wear and tear — minor scuffs, small nail holes, faded paint
  • Carpet worn from normal foot traffic
  • Paint fading after 2+ years
  • Appliances that break from normal use
  • Pre-existing damage that you documented at move-in

If your landlord tries to charge you for any of these, your move-in photos are your first line of defense. Without documentation, it's your word against theirs.

Section 3

What your landlord CAN charge you for

  • Holes in walls beyond small nail holes
  • Stains or burns on carpet
  • Broken fixtures from misuse
  • Pet damage
  • Unreturned keys

Be honest with yourself. If you broke it, it's yours. The goal isn't to escape responsibility — it's to make sure you don't pay for things that were already broken when you arrived.

Section 4

Store your evidence somewhere safe

  • NOT just your phone — phones break, get lost, and photos get deleted
  • Cloud storage with timestamps (Google Photos, iCloud, or Dropbox all work)
  • Email the photos to yourself on move-in day — that creates a timestamped record
  • Keep everything until at least one year after you move out

DepositHawk stores your move-in photos, monitors your lease, and generates a demand letter if your landlord keeps your deposit. $3/mo.

Protect My Deposit — $3/mo
Section 5

Know your state's rules

  • Your state has a specific deadline for deposit return — usually 14 to 60 days after move-out
  • Your state may award 2-3x damages if your landlord violates the deadline
  • Some states require a written itemized statement of any deductions
  • Violations of deposit law can be filed in small claims court without an attorney

Check your state's deposit laws

Check My State's Deposit Laws
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How many photos should I take at move-in?

As many as possible. Photograph every wall, every floor, every fixture. 50-100 photos is not too many. Your landlord can't argue with timestamped photos.

What if my landlord doesn't do a move-in inspection?

Do your own. Photograph everything, email the photos to your landlord with the date. That creates a record even if they ignore it.

Can I use my phone camera?

Yes, but make sure timestamps are enabled and back up to cloud storage immediately. Phones get lost.

When should I do the move-in checklist?

Before you unpack. Once furniture is against walls and rugs cover floors, you've lost the chance to document what's underneath.

By State

Move-In Checklist by State

Deposit return deadlines, penalty rules, and walk-through requirements vary by state. Select yours for the specific rules that apply to your apartment.

More Resources

DepositHawk is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Information and documents are for informational purposes only. No attorney-client relationship is created. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.