Move-in inspection
A walk-through with the tenant at move-in, documenting the condition of the unit. Protects both sides when it's time to return the security deposit.
Every term like this one lights up in the step you're on.
Free to set up. No credit card.Part 1 of 4
Why a seller cares
The move-in inspection report is what a deposit dispute is decided on, and when a rental is sold the buyer inherits both the deposit and the report. A missing report makes the deposit hard to keep any part of.
Part 2 of 4
A simple example
Your tenant's move-in checklist from 2022 notes a scratched floor and a working dishwasher. It goes to the buyer with the lease at closing.
| What exists | What it does later |
|---|---|
| A signed move-in report with photos | Damage beyond it can be charged to the deposit |
| No report | Most of the deposit goes back, whatever the unit looks like |
| The report handed to the buyer at closing | The buyer can settle the deposit fairly when the tenant leaves |
The move-in report is the deposit's evidence, and it travels with the property.
Part 3 of 4
What people get wrong
That the seller can keep the deposit for damage they saw. The deposit and its evidence go to the buyer; the tenant settles with them.
Part 4 of 4 · where to read next
Where it appears in the sale
What a definition is, and what it isn't
Keighbor is a software company, not a law firm, brokerage, or tax adviser. This is general information, not legal, tax, financial, or real estate advice about your sale. Your situation may differ. Before acting on a contract, disclosure, title, tax, or pricing question, ask an appropriately licensed professional in your state.
Written and researched by Keighbor Research · drawn from the reference glossary · how we research and check what we publish
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