Move In Inspections

Before signing the lease, complete the move in inspection. Every community has one. If a community wants you to lease a unit site unseen, RUNNNN!!!! Inspections are very important because they account for any damages in the unit before you move in. And be sure to document everything. I had a leasing consultant to give the inspection sheet to me for completion. This is a no -no. Have that leasing consultant complete the walk with you and again document everything from the walk up to door all the way to the very last corner of the unit. Every scratch should be documented because when you move out you do not want to be held accountable for damages you did not do. Make sure you document the status of the carpet, walls, countertops, stove, doors, ceiling, windows, fireplace, refrigerator, closets.... Get the picture??? And get a copy for your records. Many times the manager does not want to include the damages because it would mean their leasing consultant may not get her commission for the move in. If you try to be nice and sign a different move in form with less damage it will come back to bite you. My suggestion would be to keep a copy of them both if you choose to help out. And submit a letter to them via certified mail that the work has not been completed and you want the maintenance ticket if/when any work in the unit is be done.

At move out, the leasing office will try to charge you (your security deposit) for painting, cleaning and getting the unit ready for another resident. Make sure you complete a moveout inspection and again with the leasing consultant or Assistant Manager (AKA business manager - he/she inputs rent and all other fees). Make sure you complete the moveout inspection on the same sheet as the move in inspection. And remember to get a copy.

Unit = apartment, condo, home,