The Benefits of Detailed Move-In Reports at Rental Properties
Saturday, September 5th, 2009Move out reports and security deposit reconciliations are by far one of the least favorite things for landlords to conduct. Often is it because they don’t know exactly what condition the property was in when the tenant moved in.
Having a thorough and well documented move-in report will counteract any questions on the condition of the home when the tenant moved it. The tenant will be held accountable for any discrepancies between the move-in and move out reports.
Don’t be too hasty when performing the move-in. A little time allotted for precise and meticulous documentation, will go a long way in the end.
When conducting the move-in, it is best to start in one room of the house and move fluidly throughout the home. Often times it will be the living room, because it is typically the first room you enter. Remember the more detailed the better. Marking the living room as good just will not cut it.
Whether or not you want to start at the ceiling and work your way down, is completely your prerogative. Try to ensure you keep whatever sequence works best for you throughout the home. Check for cracks, discolorations, holes, rips, tears, etc.
Once you are finished with one area continue on to another. Look at the blinds; are they clean? Do they work properly? Do the windows open and close as they should? Are the screen the right size and free from bends or holes? Is the carpet new or are there worn areas?
Proceed in the same manner throughout the rest of the home. Go through each and every bedroom and bathroom. Examine ever cupboard in the kitchen, open the stove, and check for leaks in the sinks or showers. Don’t forget any extra rooms like an attic or laundry room.
Taking pictures of the home is always a good idea, especially focus on areas of concern or new items through the house. Documenting the outside condition is vital as well. Check the exterior lighting and fences. Is the yard alive, recently mowed or raked?
When you have completed the move-in report; have your tenant look it over and check the information, make sure they sign and date it. Provide them a copy of the report and allow them a defined set of days to come back with anything that may have been missed. A hole in the wall reported two months later is not acceptable.
Hopefully you can see why conducting a complete and comprehensive move-in report really is crucial. You wont mistakenly charge your tenant for damage that was already present; and you wont have to bear the costs of any new damage when they leave.
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