Rental inspection checklist for landlords

You should complete this checklist during move-in and move-out inspections at minimum. Many landlords also benefit from conducting mid-lease inspections (typically every 6-12 months) to identify maintenance issues early and ensure lease compliance. Always provide proper notice according to your local landlord-tenant laws before entering the property for routine inspections.

Complement your checklist with dated photographs of each area, especially noting pre-existing damage or wear. Have both parties sign and date the completed form, and provide tenants with a copy. Once you fill out the form, Lumiform stores this securely, along with any attached documentation and photos, for easy retrieval later.

Whenever possible, conduct inspections with tenants present, especially during move-in and move-out. This creates transparency, allows for immediate clarification of concerns, and increases the likelihood that both parties will agree on the property’s condition. Having tenants sign the completed form reduces the chance of future disputes.

For single-family homes, expand the exterior section to include outbuildings, fences, and landscaping features. If you’re handling condos or apartments, you can add sections for common areas and building amenities. For furnished properties, consider including an inventory section listing furniture items with condition ratings. The core structure remains valuable across all property types.