Move-In Checklist

Give your unit a thorough inspection before you move in. It's best to inspect the premises before you move in; it will be easier to spot problems while the place is bare.

Don't neglect to check out things that might not be readily apparent, such as water pressure and sink drainage in the kitchen and bathrooms, the operation of appliances, the appearance of floors and walls, and the condition of the pads under the carpet.

Make a detailed inventory of what you find. The best way to do this is with a good checklist. The more you record about the unit when you move in, the better position you'll be in when moving out to show that certain problems already existed before you moved into the unit.

In some states, landlords are required to give new tenants a written statement on the condition of the unit at move-in time, including a comprehensive list of existing damage. In other states, many landlords provide a checklist to new tenants, but some do not. You can write up a checklist yourself.