Move-In Checklist Template

Moving into a new rental property is an exciting milestone, but it also involves various responsibilities that tenants and landlords must address to ensure a transparent and harmonious rental experience. One of the most effective ways to document the property’s condition at the start of a tenancy is by using a move-in checklist. This checklist helps prevent potential disputes over security deposits, as both parties have a clear, mutual understanding of the property’s state before occupancy begins. Below is a comprehensive guide and template to help you create and utilize a move-in checklist effectively.

Why a Move-In Checklist Matters

A move-in checklist serves as an official record of a rental property’s condition before a tenant settles in. By meticulously noting any pre-existing damage or wear, tenants can protect themselves from being held responsible for issues they did not cause, while landlords gain a transparent overview of the property’s status. This mutual clarity fosters a more positive landlord-tenant relationship, reduces misunderstandings, and simplifies the move-out process by providing a basis for comparison when determining the state of the property at the end of the lease term.

Key Components of a Move-In Checklist

A well-structured move-in checklist typically includes the following elements:

• Property Information: Documents basic details such as the address of the rental unit, the tenant’s name, and the lease start date.
• Room-by-Room Assessment: Evaluates the condition of each room and its specific components—walls, floors, windows, doors, appliances, and fixtures.
• General Items: Covers overarching elements like smoke detectors, heating or cooling systems, locks, and the property’s exterior condition.
• Condition Documentation: Notes each item’s state (e.g., “good” or “needs repair”) and includes comments on any visible damage, wear, or defects.
• Signatures: Both tenant and landlord review and sign the completed checklist to indicate mutual agreement.

Recommended Process

1. Before Move-In: Conduct a thorough walkthrough of the property with the landlord to fill out the checklist together, ensuring all pre-existing issues or concerns are documented.
2. During Tenancy: Maintain the property, promptly report any arising issues, and keep your own records if additional damage or wear occurs.
3. At Move-Out: Use the initial move-in checklist to compare the property’s condition and address any differences. This helps determine whether any portion of the security deposit should be withheld for repairs.

Table: Move-In Checklist Template

The table below outlines a recommended structure for your move-in checklist, including possible columns for the item, its initial condition, any comments or existing damage, and a final space for signatures from both parties.

Section / Room	Item	Condition	Comments / Existing Damage	Tenant Initials	Landlord Initials
Property Information	Address of Rental Unit
	Tenant(s) Name(s)
	Lease Start Date
Living Room	Walls, Floors, Ceiling	Good / Fair / Needs Fix	Note any holes, cracks, or paint issues
	Windows, Doors	Good / Fair / Needs Fix	Check locks, handles, seals, frames
	Light Fixtures, Outlets	Good / Fair / Needs Fix	Note functioning bulbs and any visible wiring damage
Kitchen	Appliances (Stove, Fridge, Dishwasher)	Good / Fair / Needs Fix	Verify operation, cleanliness, and presence of manuals
	Cabinets, Countertops	Good / Fair / Needs Fix	Check for chips, stains, loose hinges
	Sink, Plumbing Fixtures	Good / Fair / Needs Fix	Look for leaks, water pressure, properly sealing faucets
Bedroom(s)	Walls, Floors, Ceiling	Good / Fair / Needs Fix	Identify scuffs, marks, or paint inconsistencies
	Closets, Doors	Good / Fair / Needs Fix	Check for functional hinges, locks, and hang rods
	Light Fixtures, Outlets	Good / Fair / Needs Fix	Test switches and ensure all outlets are operational
Bathroom(s)	Toilet, Sink, Shower/Bathtub	Good / Fair / Needs Fix	Check for leaks, clogs, proper water flow
	Tiles, Grout	Good / Fair / Needs Fix	Inspect for cracks or mold growth
	Mirrors, Fixtures	Good / Fair / Needs Fix	Confirm that mirrors and fixtures are secure
General Items	Smoke Detectors	Good / Fair / Needs Fix	Test batteries and functionality
	Heating/Cooling Systems	Good / Fair / Needs Fix	Turn on systems to verify operation
	Doors, Locks	Good / Fair / Needs Fix	Confirm that all locks work smoothly, no broken keys
	Exterior Condition (If Applicable)	Good / Fair / Needs Fix	Note yard, porch, or shed condition
Signatures	Tenant Signature
	Landlord Signature
	Date of Completion

Use this table as a reference or template, customizing it to fit the specific features of your rental property. Feel free to add rows for any additional rooms or items that need evaluation.

Tips for Completing the Checklist

• Take Photos or Videos: Supplement written notes with visual evidence. Capturing images of each room and any existing damages can provide further clarity if disputes arise.
• Ask Questions: If you are unsure about the condition of a particular item, consult the landlord or property manager for clarification.
• Keep Copies: Ensure that both tenant and landlord retain signed copies of the completed checklist. This helps solidify the agreement and fosters accountability on both sides.

Resources

1. Move-In/Move-Out Checklist by Zillow Rental Manager – Offers a comprehensive template that can be adapted to Dutch rental standards.
2. Government.nl Housing Section – Provides general information on renting in the Netherlands, including tenant rights and responsibilities.

How Luntero Can Help

At Luntero, we aim to support tenants and landlords in creating transparent and secure rental arrangements. Our platform offers:

• Advanced Search Filters: Use our Search feature to find rental properties managed by responsible landlords who value property upkeep and transparent communication.
• Resource Hub: Explore our guides and articles, which cover essential topics like tenant rights, move-in checklists, and security deposits, enabling you to feel confident during the rental process.
• Community Forums: Connect with other tenants via Luntero’s community pages, sharing personal experiences, recommendations, and advice on effective move-in checklists.

By utilizing Luntero’s search tools and resources, you can find a rental property that matches your criteria and ensure a respectful, clear mutual understanding between you and your landlord from the outset.

Conclusion

A move-in checklist is a crucial step for establishing clarity and preventing disputes over security deposits or property condition at the end of the lease. By methodically recording the state of each room, noting any existing issues, and ensuring both parties sign and retain copies of the checklist, you create a transparent foundation for your tenancy. Implementing a thorough move-in checklist not only protects tenants from unfounded charges but also provides landlords with documented proof of the property’s initial state. Whether you’re an experienced renter or new to the Netherlands, taking the time to complete this process diligently can significantly improve your rental experience.

At Luntero, we are dedicated to facilitating positive and transparent tenant-landlord relationships, offering extensive resources to help you make well-informed decisions and maintain a smooth rental journey.

Move-In Checklist

Use this checklist to thoroughly document the condition of your rental property at move-in. Place a checkmark in each box after inspecting the corresponding item. You can print and attach it to your rental agreement or keep it on file for reference during and after your tenancy.

[ ] Property Information
    [ ] Address of the Rental Unit
    [ ] Tenant(s) Name(s)
    [ ] Lease Start Date

[ ] Landlord/Property Manager Contact
    [ ] Full Name / Company Name
    [ ] Telephone Number
    [ ] Email Address

[ ] Entry / Hallway
    [ ] Walls, Floors, and Ceiling (check for cracks, scuffs, stains)
    [ ] Doors and Locks (verify secure locking and ease of operation)
    [ ] Light Fixtures and Switches (test functionality)
    [ ] Outlets and Electrical (any visible damage?)
    [ ] Coat Closet or Storage (doors, shelves, cleanliness)

[ ] Living Room
    [ ] Walls, Floors, and Ceiling (marks, chips, or discoloration)
    [ ] Windows (check frames, locks, seals, and cleanliness)
    [ ] Doors (interior or patio doors functioning properly)
    [ ] Light Fixtures and Outlets (bulbs present and operational)
    [ ] Heating or Cooling Vents/Radiators (ensure they are unobstructed and in good condition)
    [ ] Furniture (if furnished, check upholstery, surfaces, and any scratches)

[ ] Kitchen
    [ ] Appliances (test stove, oven, fridge, dishwasher, microwave)
        [ ] Stove/Oven Temperature Settings
        [ ] Fridge/Freezer Cooling Function
        [ ] Dishwasher (run a short cycle if possible)
    [ ] Cabinets and Drawers (check hinges, handles, and cleanliness)
    [ ] Countertops (look for cracks, stains, or chips)
    [ ] Sink and Plumbing (run water, check for leaks, test garbage disposal if applicable)
    [ ] Flooring (check for any loose tiles, dents, or water damage)
    [ ] Ventilation or Range Hood (test fan and light)

[ ] Bedroom(s)
    [ ] Walls, Floors, and Ceiling (inspect for marks, scratches, or dampness)
    [ ] Windows (locks, seals, glass condition)
    [ ] Doors and Closets (confirm hinges, handles, and rods are secure)
    [ ] Light Fixtures and Outlets (ensure functionality, no exposed wiring)
    [ ] Heating or Cooling (check radiators or AC vents for proper flow)
    [ ] Furniture (if furnished, verify bed frames, mattresses, and dressers for damage)

[ ] Bathroom(s)
    [ ] Toilet (flush properly, check for running water or leaks)
    [ ] Sink and Fixtures (run water, check drainage, look for leaks)
    [ ] Shower/Bathtub (test water pressure, temperature, drains properly)
    [ ] Tiles and Grout (look for cracks or mildew)
    [ ] Mirrors, Cabinets, and Shelves (check stability and cleanliness)
    [ ] Ventilation Fan (verify functionality and absence of mold)

[ ] General Items
    [ ] Smoke Detectors (test batteries and function)
    [ ] Carbon Monoxide Detectors (if applicable)
    [ ] Heating/Cooling Systems (radiators, heat pumps, or AC units)
    [ ] Doors, Locks, and Keys (test each lock, confirm all keys are provided and functional)
    [ ] Internet/Cable Outlets (check location and condition if needed)
    [ ] Exterior Condition (if applicable: porch, balcony, yard, storage units)

[ ] Existing Damage / Comments
    [ ] Document any issues not mentioned above, such as scratches on the floor, chipped paint on walls, or malfunctioning fixtures.
    [ ] List items requiring immediate repair or further inspection.
    [ ] Provide any additional notes regarding the property’s overall condition.

Signing Off on the Checklist

Signature	Name	Date
Tenant(s) Signature
Landlord Signature
Witness (If Applicable)

How to Utilize This Checklist

1. Walkthrough with Landlord: Schedule a walkthrough with your landlord to complete the checklist together, ensuring both parties agree on the property’s initial condition.
2. Attach Photos and Videos: For added clarity, take photos or videos of each room, focusing on any existing wear or damage. Label these files clearly and store them with your completed checklist.
3. Maintain a Copy: Keep a signed copy of the checklist for your records. This document will serve as invaluable proof if any disputes concerning the property’s condition arise.
4. Ongoing Maintenance: During your tenancy, promptly address or report new issues to the landlord. Documenting these concerns helps maintain transparency and prevents misunderstandings at move-out.

By following this move-in checklist, both tenants and landlords can foster a transparent, fair, and efficient rental arrangement, reducing the likelihood of disputes and ensuring a more comfortable living experience from the outset.