March 2, 2020
When you first move into your unit, you should be provided with a means of recording preexisting damage. This is called a condition report. Condition reports are extremely important, as without one you could end up responsible for undocumented damages when you move out. Before you move in too many items and possibly obscure existing damages, make sure to perform a thorough walkthrough of the unit. Now is a great time to have a lunch break and take a moment to inspect your new home. Here I have used some of the sections we use in our own condition reports as an example for what to look for. If you receive a condition report that is blank, this will help you thoroughly check your unit. If you have received a completed condition report that you can add to, use this guide to double-check the inspector’s work and add anything they may have missed. Appliances Check for dents, stains, dirty filters, scratches, and bent railings on all applicable items listed below: Air Conditioner Built-In Microwave Dishwasher Oven/Stove Refrigerator Washer/Dryer Cabinets Check for stains, wear and tear, and any broken shelving or drawers. Closets and Doors Check doors for tape damage, nail or screw holes, and heavy scratches or holes/dents. Check edges for chipping and make sure the hardware works. Counters Check for burns, stains, and chipped or cracked surfaces. Exterior If you have a yard, deck, porch, etc., make sure to give that a lookover as well! Note the condition of any carpeted decks or railings, and photograph the state of the yard. If you are responsible for yard care and the last tenant left an overgrown forest where there once was a lawn, let your property manager know. Floor Carpeted floor: check for holes, burns, melted spots, stains, and fraying. Wood or LVT floor: check for scratches, stains, etc. If the floor is older, note the general condition of the wear and tear. Concrete, vinyl, or tile floor: note stains, discoloration, cracks or breaks, holes, burns, etc. Lights Check the ceiling for broken or missing light covers. Make sure the light bulbs all work. Sink Check for chips, hard water stains, damaged hardware, discoloration, or other surface damage. Toilets Check the exterior for chipped edges or cracks and the bowl for stains. Note the general condition of the seat and lid. Make sure everything is secure and that the toilet flushes normally. Tub/Shower Check the shower surround and floor for discoloration, cracks, and chips. Make sure everything works properly. Walls Estimate the amount of nails, tack/nail holes, anchors, etc in each room. If the wall is riddled with tack holes, make sure it’s noted! Note and photograph any holes or dents and their size and location. Also be on the lookout for markings or stains. Windows Check blinds for breakage and stains. Do they work? Also note the condition of the window frame and the screen. Once you are done, we recommend going over the unit again later in case you missed anything. When I moved into my new place last summer, it wasn’t until I was lying on my living room floor in exhaustion the first night that I realized the ceiling had three big cuts in it! Turn in your condition report (and reclean request, if your landlord provides that service) by the deadline given and finish your move. Now you are free to take your time unpacking, decorating, and making your new home your own! Photo by Bethany Cirlincion via Upsplash -SW