Move-In / Move-Out Checklist
For landlords and tenants documenting a rental unit's condition on the day a tenant moves in and again when they leave. It is the strongest everyday evidence in a security deposit dispute, especially with dated photos.
- Fields
- 79
- Pages
- 2
- Paper
- Letter
Fill it online without an account. The blank PDF is free to download and works in any PDF reader. Downloading a filled copy from the editor needs a free account — 3 downloads a month, no watermark. See plans
Reviewed
Before you start
What you need to fill it in
- Property address and tenant names
- Inspection date
- Time to walk through every room with the other party
- A phone to take dated photos of any damage
- Meter readings and the keys, fobs and remotes handed over
What's inside
79 fields, ready to fill
- 66Typed answersnames, addresses, descriptions
- 6Dateschecked as real dates
- 3Choicescheckboxes, options, dropdowns
- 4Signaturessignature and initials
10 required — the editor counts down how many are left while you fill.
Instructions
How to fill out the Move-In / Move-Out Checklist
- 1
Walk through together
Landlord and tenant inspect together where possible. Fill in each room's condition at move-in and add notes such as "scratch on closet door".
- 2
Use the condition codes
Enter N (new), G (good), F (fair), P (poor) or D (damaged) in the condition columns.
- 3
Record keys and meters
Count keys and remotes and note meter readings so final bills can be split correctly.
- 4
Sign at move-in
Both parties sign the move-in section. Keep a copy with dated photos.
- 5
Repeat at move-out
Use the move-out column for the same rooms, then sign the move-out section. Compare columns to decide deposit deductions.
Fill it online
What filling it looks like
- Edit & fill, Invite to sign and Create form are three modes of the same editor
- Amounts are formula fields: they calculate as you type
- The field navigator counts what's left and jumps to the next field
Shown with our invoice template. Sample content; names are fictional.
Written for: General (US)
This template is a general starting point, not legal advice. Landlord-tenant laws differ by state and city (deposits, notice periods, required disclosures); have a qualified professional review it for your situation.
Written by PDFBetter and last reviewed October 15, 2026. Spotted a problem? Tell us.
Move-In / Move-Out Checklist: questions people ask
Is a move-in checklist legally required?
Some states require landlords to give tenants a move-in condition statement, and others make it optional. Even where not required, it is good evidence of condition.
What is normal wear and tear?
Deterioration from ordinary use, such as minor scuffs or faded paint, generally cannot be deducted from a deposit. Damage from accidents or misuse, such as holes or large stains, usually can.
Should photos be attached?
Yes. Photos with dates make the checklist much more persuasive. Merge them into the same PDF with Merge PDF so they stay together.
What if the tenant disagrees with an entry?
Write the disagreement in the notes before signing, and both keep copies. Signing indicates the form was completed, not that every entry is accepted.
Ready when you are
Fill the Move-In / Move-Out Checklist now — no account to start.