Published: July 01, 2023

Seven Key Areas Landlords Always Inspect When You Move Out

When it’s time to move out of a rental property, it’s crucial to leave it in the best possible condition to ensure a smooth transition and the return of your security deposit. Landlords often conduct thorough inspections before refunding the deposit, and they pay close attention to specific areas of the property. To help you prepare for this process, we’ve compiled a list of the seven places landlords commonly check when tenants move out.

1. Walls and Paintwork: One of the first things landlords inspect is the condition of the walls and paintwork. They look for any marks, scuffs, or holes that need to be repaired. It’s essential to take care of these issues before moving out. Minor touch-ups or repainting can help restore the property to its original state and avoid potential deductions from your deposit.

2. Carpets and Flooring: Landlords pay particular attention to carpets and flooring, as they can easily show signs of wear and tear. Stains, tears, or burns on carpets should be addressed. Cleaning the carpets professionally is recommended to eliminate any deep-seated dirt and odors. For hard floors, ensure they are clean, free of scratches, and any damages are fixed.

3. Appliances and Fixtures: Inspecting the functionality of appliances and fixtures is a crucial step for landlords. They will check if all appliances, such as the refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, or washing machine, are in proper working order. Make sure to clean these appliances thoroughly and remove any food or debris. Additionally, check light fixtures, faucets, and plumbing for any repairs or replacements needed.

4. Windows and Doors: Windows and doors play a significant role in maintaining the overall condition of a rental property. Landlords will examine them for any damage, such as broken panes, faulty locks, or hinges. Clean the windows from both sides to remove smudges and dirt. Ensure that doors open and close smoothly and that locks are functioning correctly.

5. Bathrooms: Bathrooms are often areas of high scrutiny during move-out inspections. Landlords look for cleanliness, mold, mildew, and any signs of water damage. Thoroughly clean the tiles, grout, bathtub, shower, toilet, and sink. Address any issues promptly, such as leaks or broken fittings, to avoid potential deductions from your deposit.

6. Ventilation and HVAC Systems: Proper ventilation and functioning HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems are vital for a healthy living environment. Landlords will check air vents, filters, and fans to ensure they are clean and in good working condition. If necessary, replace filters or clean vent covers to maintain optimal air quality.

7. Outdoor Areas: Don’t forget to pay attention to outdoor areas, including gardens, balconies, patios, or common spaces. Landlords often assess the condition of these areas, looking for any neglect, damage, or excessive debris. Trim overgrown vegetation, remove personal belongings, and sweep or clean these areas thoroughly.

By being aware of the places landlords commonly check when you move out, you can take the necessary steps to prepare your rental property for inspection. Pay attention to the walls, paintwork, carpets, appliances, windows, bathrooms, ventilation systems, and outdoor areas. Thorough cleaning and addressing any repairs or damages in a timely manner will increase your chances of receiving your full security deposit back. Remember, a well-maintained property benefits both tenants and landlords alike.

Need to move out? Visit UNITS Moving and Portable Storage of Dallas or give us a call at (972) 573-7070 today.