Why Every Renter Should Perform a Move-In and Move-Out Inspection (and Not Just Rely on the Landlord)

Renting a new home or apartment is exciting, whether it's your first place or your fifth. But amidst the packing, moving, and decorating, there's one critical step that too many renters skip or rush through: the move-in and move-out inspection.

It may seem tedious or even unnecessary, especially if your landlord already walks the property with you. But here's the truth — performing your own inspection can be the difference between getting your full security deposit back or losing hundreds of dollars for damage you didn't cause.

In this blog post, we'll break down why this process matters, the risks of skipping it, how to do it right, and why Tenant Inspect is the smarter way to protect yourself.

Why Relying on Your Landlord's Inspection Isn't Enough

Most leases include a clause that allows the landlord to deduct from your security deposit for any damage, excessive wear, or cleaning costs. But what happens when your landlord says a stain on the carpet was your fault — even though it was there when you moved in?

Without evidence, you're out of luck.

Many tenants assume their landlord's inspection is thorough or fair. But here's the reality:

• Not all landlords document things properly — or at all.
• Inspection reports can be lost, incomplete, or misrepresented.
• Some landlords assume damage is yours by default unless you prove otherwise.

You wouldn't hand over your car to someone without taking photos of its condition — why treat your rental home any differently?

The Real Cost of Skipping a Personal Inspection

Let's talk dollars and sense. Security deposits typically range from $500 to over $2,000, depending on where you live. That's your money. Skipping your own inspection means risking that money on:

• Pre-existing wall holes or paint damage
• Carpet stains that were never cleaned before your move-in
• Broken appliances or missing hardware
• Damaged blinds, screens, or fixtures
• Pet odors from previous tenants

And when you move out, anything not properly documented can — and often does — become your responsibility.

What Should a Move-In / Move-Out Inspection Include?

A solid inspection should cover every room, surface, appliance, and system. That includes:

• Walls, ceilings, and flooring
• Windows, doors, locks, and screens
• Plumbing fixtures and water pressure
• Electrical outlets, lighting, and fans
• Appliances — inside and out
• Smoke detectors and HVAC systems
• Exterior spaces like balconies, yards, or garages

Photos and notes are key. But many renters don't know where to start or forget to document minor issues that could later become major disputes. That's where Tenant Inspect comes in.

Why Use Tenant Inspect Instead of a Paper Checklist or Generic App?

Unlike random note-taking apps or complicated property management software, TenantInspect.org was designed for renters — by people who understand how easy it is to lose money during the move-out process.

Here's why it stands out:

• ✅Step-by-step guidance through every room and item you need to check
• ✅Photo documentation built in — attach photos directly within your report
• ✅Time-stamped records to verify when your inspection was done
• ✅One-time payment of just $19.99 — no subscriptions, just one low price for all your inspections
• ✅Downloadable, shareable reports — perfect for disputes or proof
• ✅Free sign-up, no spam, no strings

Other apps are built for landlords and property managers. Tenant Inspect is built for you.

Don't Just Hope — Protect Your Deposit

Hoping your landlord will "be fair" is not a plan. Being smart, organized, and prepared is. A 10–15 minute inspection could save you hundreds of dollars and hours of stress during move-out.

Start with your own inspection using our Tenant Inspect mobile app and back it up with a written report.

If you have any questions regarding move-in and move-out inspections, check out our FAQs section for more information.

Be sure to also check out our guide to disputing unfair deposit charges to help you protect your security deposit.

The Bottom Line

You can't control your landlord, but you can control how well you document your rental. Don'constave your security deposit — or your peace of mind — to chance.