PropInspect
Tenant Move-Out Checklist
Moving out? Protect your security deposit with proof. Walk the property before you hand over the keys, capture photos and video of every room's condition, and keep a dated record you can show your landlord if there's a dispute.
For renters · Free to start · Photo + video proof · Protect your deposit
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Why PropInspect works for tenant move-out checklist
Document condition
Photograph every room so you have proof of how you left the place.
Protect your deposit
Dated evidence makes it harder to be charged for pre-existing wear.
Move-out checklist
Follow a room-by-room list so you don't miss cleaning or repairs.
Keep a record
Generate a report you can save or share with your landlord.
Why tenants should document move-out
Security deposit disputes usually come down to who can prove the property's condition. As a tenant, a dated, photo-and-video record of how you left the place is your best protection against unfair charges for damage you didn't cause or for normal wear and tear.
- Proof of condition if your landlord disputes the deposit
- Shows you returned the property clean and undamaged
- Separates your responsibility from normal wear and tear
Clean, repair, then document
Work through the checklist before your final walkthrough: clean every room, patch small nail holes, replace burnt-out bulbs, and remove all belongings and trash. Then photograph and video each room so your record matches the condition you're handing back.
State-specific deposit guidance
Deposit rules vary by state. Review the guide for the state where the rental is located before documenting its condition.
A dated, room-by-room record helps you document the property's condition and share the evidence with the other party.
Read the California security deposit guideA dated move-in and move-out record can help support the accounting when the condition of a rental is disputed.
Read the Nevada security deposit guideA dated, room-by-room record helps document the checklist baseline and support the move-out accounting.
Read the Washington security deposit guideA dated, room-by-room record helps establish the move-in baseline and support the move-out damage list.
Read the Georgia security deposit guideA dated, room-by-room record helps document the condition behind each deduction or challenge an unsupported charge.
Read the Texas security deposit guideTenant move-out checklist
Do these before you return the keys:
- Remove all belongings and trash from every room
- Clean floors, carpets, and baseboards
- Wipe down kitchen counters, cabinets, and appliances
- Clean the oven, stovetop, and refrigerator
- Scrub the bathroom — toilet, sink, tub, and shower
- Patch small nail holes and touch up scuffs if allowed
- Replace burnt-out lightbulbs
- Dust fixtures, vents, and ceiling fans
- Clean windows, sills, and tracks
- Empty and clean closets and storage
- Photograph and video every room's final condition
- Return all keys, fobs, and remotes
Frequently asked questions
How do I protect my security deposit when moving out?
Clean thoroughly, fix any minor damage you're allowed to, and document the property's condition with dated photos and video before you return the keys. That record is your evidence if your landlord tries to deduct for damage or wear you didn't cause.
What's the difference between damage and normal wear and tear?
Normal wear and tear is the expected decline from everyday living — light carpet wear, small nail holes, faded paint — and landlords generally can't charge for it. Damage is beyond ordinary use, like large holes or stains. Photos help prove which is which.
Can I share my move-out record with my landlord?
Yes. PropInspect generates a read-only shareable link and PDF showing the photos, videos, and notes for every room, so you can send your landlord proof of condition right after your walkthrough.
Protect your deposit before you hand over the keys
Start a free move-out walkthrough now — no account or download required.
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