To assure you get most of your rent deposit returned, a walk-through you can determine if there are any issues that need fixing before you move in. Prior to finalizing a lease in a new apartment or home tenants should be meet with the Property Manager or Owner to do there own inspections. This should be done in writing with both parties signature’s prior to final the lease.
Determine if there are any issues that need fixing before you move in. It can save you a lot of headaches in the future and make sure you get your Rent Deposit back.
Before you start make sure you have a camera to take pictures of any problem areas.
Things you should look for:
Electrical– make sure lights and electrical sockets work and all lights are functioning.
Plumbing– turn on showers, sinks and flush all toilets to ensure proper drain flow and toilets do not continue to run post flushing.
Water– test hot water and water pressure
Floors, Walls and Countertops– Examine for any scrapes, scuffs and cuts, and check the counter tops for any stains, burn marks or chips. If a Property Manager needs to paint this will cost you your rent deposit.
Heating, Air Conditioning and Ventilation– turn them on and make sure they are in good working condition. You should also ask when the last time the vents were cleaned and filters were changed.
Fire Alarms– Press and hold the test button for a few seconds to see if it beeps. If it does, your detector is working properly. Nothing is worse than have a fire alarm that starts beeping or even worse- one that doesn’t work
Appliances– check stove, oven, microwave, dishwasher, garbage disposal, refrigerator and freezer. Make sure water and Ice makers are properly functioning and ask the Owner
Doors and Windows- make sure doors property work and that windows are property sealed, open and close and lock, also look at all screens to make sure they are installed and not torn or damaged.