Moving in and out
Should I do a move-out walkthrough with my landlord?
Updated By the Housing Rocket moderators
Short answer
Yes, if you can. Walking through the cleaned, empty apartment together lets you hear about problems while you can still fix them, and gives both sides a shared record. Ask to schedule one a week or two before your last day, and if possible do a final one when you return the keys.
A few states require landlords to offer a pre-move-out inspection so tenants can fix issues before leaving. Even where it isn't required, most landlords agree, because it saves them time too.
How to get the most from it:
- Bring your move-in photos and condition report so you can point to anything that was already there
- Ask the landlord to name specific issues and whether they would charge for them
- Take notes and ask them to confirm the list by email
- Fix small things yourself where the lease allows, like patching nail holes or replacing bulbs
Don't sign anything at the walkthrough agreeing to deductions you dispute. You can acknowledge that the walkthrough happened without accepting charges.
If the landlord won't do one, record your own final video after cleaning, room by room, then return the keys and confirm by email the date and time you handed them over.
Want the whole picture? Read Renting Your First Apartment: Applications, Leases and Move-in Costs.