Move-out checklist for UK tenancies

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 sockets
• Floors and floor coverings

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

• Walls
• Doors
• Lights and sockets
• Floors and floor coverings
• Windows
• Blinds and curtains
• Radiators

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

• Walls
• Doors
• Lights and sockets
• Floors and floor coverings
• Windows
• Blinds and curtains
• Cupboards
• Sink and worktops
• Oven and hob
• Fridge freezer
• Extractor fan

Test taps, shower pressure and toilet flush. Check for leaks, mould or damage to fittings.

• Walls
• Doors
• Lights and sockets
• Floors and floor coverings
• Windows
• Blinds and curtains
• Mirror and cabinet
• Bath
• Shower
• Wash basin
• Toilet
• Extractor fan

Test the washing machine and check the utility sink for damage or leaks.

• Walls
• Doors
• Lights and sockets
• Floors and floor coverings
• Windows
• Blinds and curtains
• Washing machine
• Utility sink

Check walls, doors, windows and floor coverings.

• Walls
• Doors
• Lights and sockets
• Floors and floor coverings
• Windows
• Blinds and curtains
• Wardrobe

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

• Handrail
• Treads and risers
• Lighting

Check bins and bin store, locks and insulation. Confirm smoke alarms are present and working throughout the property.

• Bins and bin store
• 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 sockets
• Floor
• Door and remote

Check external walls and paintwork, gutters and downpipes. Note any signs of moisture or damage.

• External walls and paintwork
• Gutters and downpipes

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

• Lawns and gardens
• Fencing
• Washing line
• Letterbox

Check the loft hatch, insulation and any signs of water ingress or pests.

• Loft hatch and ladder
• Insulation depth
• Signs of water ingress
• Pest activity
• Water tank and pipework lagged

Check the boiler, cylinder and pipework for leaks and corrosion.

• Boiler and controls
• Hot water cylinder
• Pipework lagged
• No leaks or corrosion
• Shelving and door

Record the condition of shared entrances, stairs and bin stores.

• Communal entrance and door entry
• Stairs and handrails
• Lighting
• Bin store
• Fire doors and escape routes clear

Record the condition of any allocated parking, driveway or garage.

• Allocated space or driveway
• Surface condition
• Garage door and remote
• Lighting

Check for condensation, penetrating damp and rising damp. A property must be fit for human habitation under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018.

• No visible mould growth
• Extractor fans in kitchen and bathroom working
• Windows open and trickle vents clear
• No penetrating or rising damp
• No condensation staining on walls or ceilings
• Loft and wall insulation adequate

Compare against the inventory of furniture and contents supplied at move-in and note anything missing or damaged.

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

• Number of keys returned
• Spare keys
• Garage remote
• Letterbox 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 standard the property was left in and the outcome for the deposit.

• Cleaning to the standard at check-in
• Rubbish and belongings removed
• Deductions itemised and costed
• Deposit return or dispute raised with the scheme