Move-out checklist

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check walls, doors, windows and floor coverings.

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

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

• Handrail
• Treads and risers
• Lighting

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

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

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

• Roof and supports
• Floor
• Lighting

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

• Siding and paint
• Gutters and downspouts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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