An Apartment Walk-Thru Checklist

Although every landlord or management company won’t require you to fill out an apartment walk-through checklist, its in your best interested  to fill it out entirely. And if they don't’ have a form, you will need to make one up.

Its best to ask your landlord about the move in form when you apply. You probably don’t want any surprises the day of your move in. If you are not provided with a checklist on the day of your move-in, don’t sign your lease.  You do have a right to make a note about pre-existing issues you may discover inside your apartment home.

Safety

During your walk-through, the first items you want to check that are working properly are your fire extinguishers and smoke detectors. Most apartments won’t have an extinguishers in the unit, they should be in the hallway. 

• Some apartments will have bars on the windows. If this is the case, does the community provide you with a key too. Each bedroom should have a window that can be used as an escape in case of an emergency.  Be sure you know what the exit procedures are in case of a fire or other emergency.

Check The Doors and Windows

*Do all the doors have operational locks and are all door knobs secure.  Especially check the door to the hallway of the community. 

*Do all doors and windows and open and close properly

*Some windows will have screens. Make sure they are properly attached.

Appliances

*All appliances should be in properly working order. Its your job to test all the burners on the stove, the oven, refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, etc. 

Most landlords and management companies will handle all of the maintenance issues for free. However, you don’t want to move into a community that already has issues with appliances.

Check the overall condition. View the carpeting, walls, ceilings, and bathrooms and look for flaws or damage of any kind. Be sure that you make a note of any inconsistencies.