Move-In / Move-Out Checklist
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A move in move out form protects the renter and the property owner from legal claims for home damage. It indicates if any damage has been done during the lease period. Use a printable tenant move-out checklist to ensure you do not miss important details.
When To Use a Move-In/Move-Out Checklist
Common situations:
- You rent out a home or apartment to a new tenant;
- You want to avoid paying for damages you didn't cause;
- A landlord wants to prevent property damage disputes;
- You sublease a room or unit to another person;
- During inspections before and after a rental contract.
When not to use a move-in/out checklist:
- When the property is not being rented (someone is staying with family or friends for free, for example);
- In short-term stays like hotels, hostels, or vacation rentals where no lease is involved;
- If the rental agreement is verbal, the move in checklist for tenants is invalid.
How To Fill In a Move-In Checklist Template: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Provide dwelling basic details
- Write the full address where the house, apartment, or room being rented is located.
- Specify the number of bedrooms.
Property description and address: 1183 Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60610. An apartment with 2 bedrooms, a kitchen, and a bathroom.
Apartment No. 12
Bedrooms: 2
Step 2: Add the parties' names and contact details
- Write the full names, addresses, and contact information of the property owner and the renter.
Tenant Name and contact details: Sarah Lee, 1183 Park Ave, Apt #12, Chicago, IL 60610, sarah.lee@email.com.
Landlord’s Name and contact details: Amy Johnson, 432 West Elm Street, Chicago, IL 60601, amy.johnson@email.com.
Step 3: Record the dates of moving in and out
- Add the date when the tenant started living in the property;
- Write the date when the landlord (or their representative) inspects the dwelling and fills out the move out inspection form.
Move-In Date: January 12, 2023
Move-Out Date: May 13, 2025
Step 4: Add the inspection results
- Fill in each section of the move in move out form for different areas of the house or apartment, like the kitchen, bedroom, and living room;
- Compare them to the condition in which the area and each item in it were at the beginning of the lease;
- Add the cost of repairs if needed.
Steps and landings: no damages/step 3 is broken
Doors: no damages/doorbell does not work/$200
Floors: no damages/ minor stains on the carpet
Step 5: Sign and date the move in inspection form
- Once the parties agree on the condition of the property, they should sign and date the move in move out inspection form. It makes the document legally valid.
Keep a signed copy of the document until the end of the lease period.
If you're unsure about anything in the move in checklist, ask a legal professional for help.