Move-out checklist

Entrance

Check the front door operates smoothly and locks securely. Note the condition of the doorbell and entry lighting.

• Front door
• Lock and hardware
• Doorbell
• Lighting

Hallway

Check walls, doors and floor coverings along the hallway. Note any marks, scuffs or trip hazards.

• Walls
• Doors
• Lights and outlets
• Floors and floor coverings

Living room

Check walls, doors, windows and heating. Test that all lights and outlets work.

• Walls
• Doors
• Lights and outlets
• Floors and floor coverings
• Windows
• Blinds and drapes
• Heating and cooling

Kitchen and dining

Test all appliances, faucets and lights. Check cupboards open and close properly and note any damage to countertops or surfaces.

• Walls
• Doors
• Lights and outlets
• Floors and floor coverings
• Windows
• Blinds and drapes
• Cabinets
• Sinks and countertops
• Range and oven
• Refrigerator
• Exhaust fan
• Dishwasher
• Garbage disposal

Bathroom

Test faucets, shower pressure and toilet flush. Check for leaks, mold or damage to fittings.

• Walls
• Doors
• Lights and outlets
• Floors and floor coverings
• Windows
• Blinds and drapes
• Mirror and cabinet
• Bath
• Shower
• Sink and vanity
• Toilet
• Exhaust fan

Laundry room

Test the washer and dryer and check the utility sink for damage or leaks.

• Walls
• Doors
• Lights and outlets
• Floors and floor coverings
• Windows
• Blinds and drapes
• Washer and dryer
• Utility sink

Bedroom

Check walls, doors, windows and floor coverings.

• Walls
• Doors
• Lights and outlets
• Floors and floor coverings
• Windows
• Blinds and drapes
• Closet

Stairs

Check the handrail is secure and treads are free of damage or hazards.

• Handrail
• Treads and risers
• Lighting

General

Check trash and recycling cans, locks and insulation. Confirm smoke alarms are present and working throughout the property.

• Trash and recycling cans
• Locks
• Insulation
• Smoke alarms present and working

Garage

Check the garage door and remote operate correctly. Note the condition of the floor and any damage to walls.

• Walls
• Doors
• Lights and outlets
• Floor
• Door and remote

Carport

Check the roof and supports are sound and free of damage.

• Roof and supports
• Floor
• Lighting

Exterior

Check siding and paint, gutters and downspouts. Note any signs of moisture or damage.

• Siding and paint
• Gutters and downspouts

Yard

Check lawns, gardens and fencing are in reasonable condition. Confirm the mailbox is present and usable.

• Lawns and gardens
• Fencing
• Mailbox
• Driveway and walkways

HVAC and water heater

Run the heating and cooling through a full cycle and check the water heater for leaks or corrosion.

• Furnace or heating system
• Air conditioning
• Thermostat
• Air filter replaced
• Water heater and temperature setting
• Pressure relief valve and drain pan
• No leaks or corrosion

Windows, screens and storm doors

Open and close each window. Check screens are present and free of tears.

• Windows open, close and lock
• Screens present and intact
• Storm doors and windows
• Weatherstripping and caulking
• Glass free of cracks

Basement, crawl space and attic

Look for water intrusion, musty smells and any sign of pests. Test the sump pump if there is one.

• Sump pump
• Signs of water intrusion or staining
• Foundation cracks
• Insulation
• Ventilation
• Pest activity

Furnishings and appliances

Compare against the furnishings and appliances supplied at move-in and note anything missing or damaged.

Keys

Photograph all keys returned and note the count, including spares, garage remotes and mailbox keys.

• Number of keys returned
• Spare keys
• Garage remote
• Mailbox key

Meter checks

Record gas, electricity and water meter readings at the end of the tenancy.

• Gas meter reading
• Electricity meter reading
• Water meter reading

Forwarding address

Record the tenant's forwarding address in writing. State law sets the deadline for returning the security deposit, so get this before they hand back the keys.

• Forwarding address recorded
• Preferred contact email and phone
• Security deposit itemization method agreed
• Date keys returned