Last Updated: February 2026

Moving into a new apartment is exciting, but taking time to thoroughly inspect and document its condition is crucial for protecting your security deposit. Landlords withhold an average of $200-$500 from security deposits for damages—including pre-existing issues tenants failed to document at move-in.

This comprehensive apartment move-in checklist guides you through everything to inspect, document, and set up when moving into a rental. Whether it's your first apartment or your tenth, this checklist ensures you don't miss anything important.

Before You Move In

Complete these tasks before your move-in date to ensure a smooth transition and protect your interests from day one.

Review Your Lease Agreement

• ☐ Read the entire lease carefully—don't just skim
• ☐ Note the move-in/move-out dates and any grace periods
• ☐ Understand rent payment terms: due date, late fees, accepted payment methods
• ☐ Review pet policy if applicable (deposits, restrictions, monthly fees)
• ☐ Know the guest and subletting policies
• ☐ Understand maintenance request procedures
• ☐ Check lease-breaking terms and penalties
• ☐ Verify security deposit amount and conditions for return

Arrange Renters Insurance

• ☐ Compare renters insurance quotes (typically $15-30/month)
• ☐ Choose appropriate coverage level based on your belongings' value
• ☐ Understand what's covered: theft, fire, water damage, liability
• ☐ Activate policy before move-in date
• ☐ Provide proof to landlord if required

Schedule Utilities

• ☐ Contact utility providers to start service on move-in date
• ☐ Set up electricity and gas
• ☐ Arrange internet installation (schedule early—appointments fill up)
• ☐ Confirm which utilities are included in rent (water, trash, etc.)

Coordinate with Landlord

• ☐ Confirm exact move-in time
• ☐ Ask about building access: elevator reservations, loading zones
• ☐ Get all keys, fobs, and access codes
• ☐ Request move-in inspection checklist if provided
• ☐ Get emergency contact information

Move-In Inspection: Protect Your Deposit

The move-in inspection is your most important task on moving day. Everything you document now protects you when you move out.

General Inspection Tips

• Do the inspection before moving anything in—empty apartments reveal more issues
• Bring a flashlight to check dark areas and under cabinets
• Take photos and videos with timestamps
• Test everything that can be tested: outlets, switches, faucets, appliances
• Note even minor damage: scratches, stains, dents, nail holes
• Request the landlord walk through with you if possible

What to Document

• ☐ Wall damage: holes, cracks, scuffs, stains
• ☐ Floor condition: scratches, stains, loose tiles, carpet wear
• ☐ Window condition: cracks, broken locks, screen damage
• ☐ Door condition: scratches, dings, lock function
• ☐ Appliance condition: dents, stains, missing parts
• ☐ Fixture condition: rust, stains, chips
• ☐ Blinds and curtains: broken slats, stains, missing pieces
• ☐ Cabinet and closet interiors: shelf damage, peeling, stains

Room-by-Room Inspection Checklist

Go through each room systematically, using this detailed checklist to ensure nothing is missed.

Living Room / Common Areas

• ☐ Walls: Check for holes, cracks, stains, scuff marks
• ☐ Ceiling: Look for water stains, cracks, peeling paint
• ☐ Flooring: Document scratches, stains, loose boards, carpet condition
• ☐ Windows: Open and close each one; check locks and screens
• ☐ Blinds/curtains: Test functionality; note damage
• ☐ Light fixtures: Test all switches; check for missing bulbs
• ☐ Electrical outlets: Test each with a phone charger or outlet tester
• ☐ Thermostat: Verify it works; check heating and cooling
• ☐ Doors: Check that all doors close and lock properly

Kitchen

• ☐ Refrigerator: Check interior, freezer, shelves, drawers; test ice maker if applicable
• ☐ Oven/stove: Test all burners and oven; check for cleanliness
• ☐ Microwave: Test functionality; check interior for damage
• ☐ Dishwasher: Run a cycle; check for leaks underneath
• ☐ Sink and faucet: Run hot and cold water; check for leaks; test disposal
• ☐ Cabinets and drawers: Open all; check for damage, pests, cleanliness
• ☐ Countertops: Look for chips, burns, stains
• ☐ Under sink: Check for leaks, water damage, mold
• ☐ Hood/exhaust fan: Test fan; check filter
• ☐ Floor: Check tile grout, linoleum condition

Bathroom(s)

• ☐ Toilet: Flush to test; check for leaks around base; inspect seat
• ☐ Sink and faucet: Test hot and cold water; check for leaks
• ☐ Shower/tub: Run water; check drain, tiles, grout, caulking
• ☐ Showerhead: Test water pressure; check for mineral buildup
• ☐ Mirror and medicine cabinet: Check for cracks; test cabinet doors
• ☐ Exhaust fan: Test that it works
• ☐ Towel bars and fixtures: Ensure they're secure
• ☐ Floor and tiles: Look for cracks, water damage, mold
• ☐ Under sink cabinet: Check for water damage, mold

Bedroom(s)

• ☐ Walls and ceiling: Check for damage, stains
• ☐ Flooring/carpet: Document any stains, wear patterns, damage
• ☐ Closet: Check doors, shelving, rods, interior walls
• ☐ Windows: Test opening, closing, locks, screens
• ☐ Light fixtures and outlets: Test all
• ☐ Smoke detector: Verify presence and test (should be in each bedroom)

Laundry Area (if applicable)

• ☐ Washer: Run a quick cycle; check for leaks, strange noises
• ☐ Dryer: Test heat settings; check lint trap; verify venting
• ☐ Hookups: If no appliances, check that hookups are functional
• ☐ Floor: Check for water damage around appliances

Entry and Exterior

• ☐ Front door: Test all locks including deadbolt; check weatherstripping
• ☐ Doorbell: Test if applicable
• ☐ Peephole: Verify it's present and clear
• ☐ Patio/balcony: Check door locks, floor condition, railing stability
• ☐ Parking space: Document condition; note assigned spot number
• ☐ Storage unit: If included, inspect and document condition

Documenting Apartment Condition

Proper documentation is your insurance policy for your security deposit. Here's how to do it right.

Written Documentation

• ☐ Complete the landlord's move-in inspection form if provided
• ☐ Create your own detailed list with specific descriptions
• ☐ Date everything—use today's date on all documents
• ☐ Be specific: "3-inch scratch on living room hardwood near window" not "floor damage"
• ☐ Get landlord signature if possible
• ☐ Keep copies of everything—digital and physical

Photo and Video Documentation

• ☐ Enable timestamps on your phone camera
• ☐ Take wide shots of each room
• ☐ Take close-ups of all damage
• ☐ Photograph inside all appliances
• ☐ Document all wall surfaces
• ☐ Record a walkthrough video with narration
• ☐ Back up photos/videos to cloud storage immediately
• ☐ Email copies to yourself for additional timestamp proof

Submit to Landlord

• ☐ Submit move-in inspection report within required timeframe (typically 3-7 days)
• ☐ Send via email to create a paper trail
• ☐ Request written confirmation of receipt
• ☐ Keep copies of all correspondence

Setting Up Utilities and Services

Get all your services up and running so your apartment is fully functional from day one.

Essential Utilities

• ☐ Electricity: Confirm service is active; note meter reading
• ☐ Gas: If applicable, verify service and pilot lights
• ☐ Water: Usually included in rent; confirm with landlord
• ☐ Trash and recycling: Learn pickup days and procedures
• ☐ Internet: Confirm installation appointment; set up router

Optional Services

• ☐ Cable/streaming TV: Set up preferred services
• ☐ Smart home devices: Connect to WiFi
• ☐ Package locker access: Register if building has one
• ☐ Gym/amenity access: Get access cards or codes

Address Updates

• ☐ USPS change of address: File online at usps.com
• ☐ Update driver's license within state deadline
• ☐ Notify employer of new address
• ☐ Update bank and credit cards
• ☐ Update voter registration
• ☐ Notify insurance companies

First Apartment Essentials Checklist

If this is your first apartment, you'll need to stock up on basics. Prioritize these essentials.

Immediate Needs (Day 1)

• ☐ Toilet paper—seriously, don't forget this
• ☐ Hand soap and dish soap
• ☐ Paper towels
• ☐ Trash bags
• ☐ Basic cleaning supplies: all-purpose cleaner, sponge
• ☐ Lightbulbs—check what types you need
• ☐ Phone charger and extension cord

Kitchen Basics

• ☐ Pots and pans: Start with one of each in different sizes
• ☐ Basic utensils: spatula, wooden spoon, ladle
• ☐ Plates, bowls, cups, silverware: Service for 4 is a good start
• ☐ Cutting board and knives
• ☐ Can opener
• ☐ Measuring cups and spoons
• ☐ Mixing bowls
• ☐ Coffee maker or kettle

Bathroom Essentials

• ☐ Towels: Bath towels, hand towels, washcloths
• ☐ Shower curtain and rings (if not provided)
• ☐ Bath mat
• ☐ Toilet brush and plunger
• ☐ Wastebasket

Bedroom Necessities

• ☐ Mattress and bed frame
• ☐ Sheets, pillows, pillowcases
• ☐ Blankets or comforter
• ☐ Hangers
• ☐ Lamp or lighting

Cleaning Supplies

• ☐ Vacuum or broom and dustpan
• ☐ Mop and bucket
• ☐ All-purpose cleaner
• ☐ Glass cleaner
• ☐ Bathroom cleaner
• ☐ Sponges and scrub brushes
• ☐ Laundry detergent

Tools and Safety

• ☐ Basic toolkit: hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, wrench
• ☐ Tape measure
• ☐ Flashlight
• ☐ Batteries
• ☐ First aid kit
• ☐ Fire extinguisher (small kitchen-rated one)

Safety Checks and Security

Your safety in your new home is paramount. Complete these checks immediately.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

• ☐ Verify smoke detectors are in each bedroom, hallway, and common area
• ☐ Test each detector using the test button
• ☐ Check CO detector near bedrooms and gas appliances
• ☐ Replace batteries if beeping or uncertain of age
• ☐ Report missing detectors to landlord immediately

Fire Safety

• ☐ Locate fire exits on your floor
• ☐ Know the evacuation plan
• ☐ Locate fire extinguisher (building should have them)
• ☐ Consider purchasing a small extinguisher for kitchen
• ☐ Identify meeting point outside in case of fire

Security Measures

• ☐ Test all door locks: main entry, deadbolt, chain/bar
• ☐ Check window locks on all accessible windows
• ☐ Consider additional security: door reinforcement bar, window locks
• ☐ Know how to contact building security if applicable
• ☐ Program emergency contacts into your phone
• ☐ Get to know neighbors—community is security

Emergency Preparedness

• ☐ Locate circuit breaker/fuse box
• ☐ Find water shut-off valve
• ☐ Know gas shut-off location if applicable
• ☐ Save maintenance emergency number
• ☐ Know nearest hospital and urgent care

Frequently Asked Questions

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