Using Move-In, Move-Out Inspections in Normal Wear and Tear Conditions

Looking for a rental property nowadays can be an intense experience, especially when there can be doubts that a rental may be a foreclosure property. But when you are fortunate to rent a property that is a normal rental that you look forward to moving into, another question may rise as to the maintenance of the apartment/home - Wear and Tear.

What is Normal Wear and Tear?

Just as a vehicle has normal wear and tear, e.g., tires, hoses, paint abrasion's, dents, scratches, scuffs, and fabric discoloration, rental properties also have normal wear and tear, such as paint, carpeting, walls, and appliances.

Who is Responsible for Normal Wear and Tear?

It all depends how you confront the situation prior to move-in. Before you move into a rental, make sure that your landlord provides you with a Move-In and Move-Out Inspection List (or, Walk-Through List). If the landlord does not provide you with a Move-In and Move-Out Inspection list, you may demand to document any damages that the rental had prior to moving into your place. This will avoid any fees that the landlord may deduct from you security deposits for damages that were not caused by you but actually by a prior tenant.

Make Sure you Inspect and Document Everything Prior to Move-In Date (Walk-Through)

Just because a rental property has a couple of years of new construction does not mean that everything may be in actual tip top condition although we hope and assume that things are. Same principle goes to a buyer/investor when purchasing a home.

Use your Camera and Take Images

Another way to document wear and tear damages of a rental is to take images. As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words. A camera is also a great tool to have when doing your Move-Out Inspection List as well.

There is Always Room for Negotiations

You may also negotiate fixing or cleaning the apartment with prior damages and have the landlord deduct it from your security money deposit or your rental monthly payments. Remember, make sure it is done in writing and document everything that you did for your time and money. Landlord should rectify any prior damages done to the apartment at their own expense prior to your move-in date. Some landlords are also willing to negotiate so ask, ask, ask!

You can also apply the same principle when doing your Move-Out Inspection List. Some tenants like to paint the rental with their own colors to match furniture or simply to liven up the place but must repaint back to white prior to move-out. Painting may cause you your whole deposit security money depending on how many rooms were painted.

Not all Landlords are out to Get your Money

A responsible and reputable landlord and property manager should supply you with the proper Move-in and Move-Out Inspection List form, ask for it!

Or, you may demand to do your own Move-In and Move-Out Inspection List. If the landlord/property manager refuses to do so then it is time to move-on!

Move-In Move Out Inspection List Source: rentlaw.com