Move-in day is the wrong time to discover the previous tenant's cabinet damage or that your internet won't be installed for ten days. A good checklist catches the small things that cost real money when missed.
Check off each item below as you go. Your progress saves automatically in your browser, so you can pick up where you left off on your phone the morning of the move.
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60+ days before
Week of move
Move-in day inspection
First week
How it works
The checklist is broken into four phases: 60+ days before, week of move, move-in day inspection, and first week in the apartment. The inspection phase doubles as photo documentation evidence — landlords legally cannot withhold a deposit for pre-existing damage that you noted on a move-in checklist.
Save the completed list as PDF or email it to yourself to keep on file with your lease.
Frequently asked questions
- When should I start the move-in checklist?
- 60 days before your lease starts if you can — that's when moving companies, utility appointments, and renters insurance quotes are easiest to lock in. Two weeks out is the minimum to avoid scrambling.
- Is the move-in inspection legally important?
- Yes. In most US states, a documented move-in inspection (with photos and a signed or emailed checklist sent to the landlord within 48 hours) shifts the burden of proof on damage claims at move-out.
- Can I save my progress?
- Yes. Each checkbox saves to your browser's local storage. Reopen the page on the same browser and your progress is still there.
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