9 Things to Look for During an Apartment Walkthrough
- Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. These detectors could potentially save your life. ...
- Cell phone signal. Imagine moving to a new apartment, only to find that your phone doesn’t get a signal there. ...
- Electrical outlets. ...
- Doors and windows. ...
- Heating and air conditioning. ...
- Plumbing. ...
- Water damage. ...
- Cracks. ...
- Kitchen appliances. ...
- Washer and dryer. ...
Full Answer
What should I look for during an apartment walk-through?
It’s important to be observant during apartment walk-through so you can spot any damages before moving in and receive the full amount of your security deposit once you move out. Here are some key areas to look at and a few important questions to ask during your apartment walk-through.
What is an apartment walkthrough and why is it important?
An apartment walkthrough is a process of going through an apartment to make sure everything is in good shape. Both the landlord and tenant need to participate and a walkthrough should be done before the tenant moves into the apartment. Why should you take an apartment walkthrough?
What is a walk-through checklist for a rental property?
The walk-through checklist details the condition of each room and appliance along with any present damages. Although you might receive a checklist from your landlord, it’s important to have your own checklist so you don’t miss anything. What Should I Look for During a Walk-Through?
What should I expect during a walk-through checklist?
The walk-through checklist details the condition of each room and appliance along with any present damages. Although you might receive a checklist from your landlord, it’s important to have your own checklist so you don’t miss anything. What Should I Look for During a Walk-Through? What Questions Should I Ask?
What should I look for in a apartment walkthrough?
Your Easy-to-Use Apartment Walkthrough ChecklistCheck the oven. Are the burners and interior clean? ... Open the fridge and freezer. Make sure they're both cold. ... Take a look in the dishwasher. Is the interior clean? ... If applicable, check the garbage disposal to ensure it runs. Does the kitchen sink drain properly?
How should I dress for an apartment viewing?
Viewing an apartment doesn't require formal attire, but don't show up in street clothes. Avoid clothing with holes, rips, cuts, wrinkles and stay away from tight or short items. You should look clean and presentable so professional or business casual attire is best.
How do I make a good impression on an apartment?
Bring the following information to your meeting with the landlord or property manager so you can fill out your application on the spot:References. Have a written list of at least three references. ... Past rental or residence information. ... Proof of ability to pay. ... Financial information. ... Pet data. ... Liquid funds.
What should I bring to a flat viewing?
Proof of earnings – You'll need to provide proof of employment and earnings to prove you can afford the rent. This could include a recent payslip, tax return or employment contract. References – Just like when applying for a job, you'll need to have some references ready for the landlord or letting agency to contact.
What is the lowest credit score to rent an apartment?
620What Credit Score Do You Need To Rent an Apartment? While a FICO credit score from 580-669 is considered fair credit, 620 is often the minimum credit score you'll need to rent an apartment. If your score is lower than 620, it could be more difficult to rent an apartment.
How do landlords choose tenants?
The priority for most landlords will be to find a long-term, reliable tenant who pays their rent on time and treats the property as their own. When choosing a tenant, you'll need to carry out a comprehensive reference check.
How do I stand out to my landlord?
8 Helpful Rental Application TipsPreparation is key. ... Submit a great cover letter. ... Provide proof you can afford to pay. ... Furnish solid references. ... Obtain a financial guarantor. ... Be honest in your rental application. ... Review your social media. ... Create a good first impression.
How do you get your landlord to like you?
Like, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood nice.Be better than the last guy. Related articles. ... Ask for permission, not forgiveness. Before you change anything, get the landlord's approval. ... Step up your security efforts. ... Don't rush them. ... Pitch in every once in a while. ... Make nice with the neighbors. ... Keep it clean—inside and out.
What do you wear to a viewing?
We recommend wearing dark or neutral colors, because darker colors reflect the mourning atmosphere of the service or visitation. Clothing can be formal (think suits and dresses) or casual (pants or nice jeans and shirts).
Should you dress up for a house viewing?
When you are visiting an open house, you should dress appropriately. You don't want to wear anything too revealing or clothes that are torn, stained, or otherwise damaged. A clean and neat appearance is always recommended.
Should you dress smart for a house viewing?
Just wear something decent, but not over the top - you're going to look at a building, not going on a blind date or something ;laugh; Be polite, ask questions about rules, bills, neighbours etc.
What is women's business casual?
In general, business casual for women includes a skirt or slacks, a blouse, a blazer and an appropriate heel or flat for the office. Business casual do's for women include: Skirts or slacks. Staple pieces include a few pairs of dress slacks and an assortment of knee-length pencil skirts. Shirts.
When you walk through an apartment, should you always check the room size?
When you walk through any apartment, you should always check to ensure the room size and layout is sufficient for your furniture. Living rooms and bedrooms are particularly important to check for space, especially if you own large beds, sofas, or end-tables. Because pots, pans, and dry foods take up a large portion of kitchen space for families, we recommend checking the provided kitchen and pantry space during your walk-through as well.
What happens if you move out of a unit?
Once you move into a unit, you are responsible for maintaining the integrity of the property. If you move out and there are any blemishes or damage to the property, the landlord will be forced to assume that you were the one who caused the damage. While checking your unit, we recommend you check for any damage to the unit and call it out to the leasing agent walking with you.
What to check during a walk through?
During a walk-through, you (the renter), will check to see if there are any issues with the unit that need to be fixed before signing the lease and moving in. Identifying these issues is vital because you don’t want to be charged fees for any damage that was present before you moved in.
Why is it important to walk through a rental?
An effective walk-through with your landlord or rental agent also reduces the likelihood of security deposit disputes because it gives you the opportunity to discuss and document the condition of the rental. It’s common for a landlord or rental agent to print off a walk-through checklist for you to sign off on.
What is a walk through checklist?
The walk-through checklist details the condition of each room and appliance along with any present damages. Although you might receive a checklist from your landlord, it’s important to have your own checklist so you don’t miss anything.
How to tell if water is in the ceiling?
Water damage can be seen in several ways including warped flooring, peeling paint, musty odors, wall stains, and leaking water. Pay attention to the flooring. If the room has carpet, check for any stains and odors.
What to do if you can't do a self guided tour?
If you can’t do a self-guided tour, ask for a walk-through video to be sent to your phone. If they send you a video, have someone else look at the video as well because a second set of eyes could catch a detail you didn’t notice before. Tenants can also ask the landlord or agent to Facetime, Zoom, or Skype them as they walk around the rental.
Do you have to walk through before moving in?
Congratulations! But before you sign the lease and move in, you should do a walk-through with your landlord or a rental agent. It’s important to be observant during apartment walk-through so you can spot any damages before moving in and receive the full amount of your security deposit once you move out. Here are some key areas to look ...
What to check for in a furnished apartment?
In a furnished apartment, check every part of the bed for damage, cracks, loose bolts and evidence of bedbugs. Bedbugs aren't very discreet, so if you see any dark staining on the mattress or bed frame, there's a good chance there was an infestation at some point.
How to check temperature in apartment?
Thermostat. Check to make sure the temperature reading on the thermostat feels like the temperature in the room. Examine other rooms to see if the temperature is consistent throughout the apartment. Turn up the heat, and check vents for heated air. Then do the same for the air conditioning.
How to make sure your apartment plugs work?
Make sure you don't smell anything either. Look for burns around outlets and cracks in the covers.
How to check if an apartment has a satellite dish?
If the apartment has a satellite dish, check that it's secure and there are no leaks or holes around the connection to the unit.
How to check for leaks in windows?
Run your hand along the frame of each window and door to feel for leaks or drafts. Inspect any insulation for cracks or brittleness. Determine if you can see light through any cracks in a closed door, indicating poor insulation. Open and close the windows and doors to ensure they work properly.
What to do if your utility closet is locked?
Don't forget about your utility closet. If it's locked, insist your property manager open it up for you to inspect. Anything goes wrong in there, you'll have major issues with your apartment, so look closely.
Do you have to inspect every room in an apartment?
Each room will have its own items to inspect, but certain things should get examined throughout the apartment. It's best to start with these since you'll need to remember to check them out as you move from room-to-room.
Why have an apartment inspection checklist?
One of the top reasons tenants and landlords end up in court is because of security deposit disputes. Having an apartment inspection checklist helps ensure there are no big surprises and both landlord and tenant are on the same page when it comes to the condition of the apartment before and after it's occupied.
What should I bring for an apartment walkthrough?
When you do your walkthrough, remember to have your phone on hand to take any photos of things you notice. Perhaps you notice that there are chips in the paint or fixtures that need repair.
What should I look for in an apartment walkthrough?
Now that you understand why an apartment inspection checklist is crucial and what you need to bring with you, we are going to highlight the key areas to notice as you do your apartment walkthrough. Here are the basics:
Apartment inspection checklist example
Download this apartment inspection checklist to use with your property manager.
If you notice something, say something
Your walkthrough is the time to document any concern or problem that exists in the unit using an apartment inspection checklist. Because this process will likely be repeated with your landlord when you move out, it's typically in your best interest to document or photograph the condition of the unit now to make a comparison later.
How to prepare for a walk-through
First, when going to do a walk-through, arrive with the right tools—a notebook, pen, tape measure (to measure door openings and rooms), and your phone (to take photographs). Second, if you can, bring someone along with you since two sets of eyes are always better than one when doing a walk-through.
Walk-throughs for buyers versus renters
Many people assume that walk-throughs are more critical for buyers than renters since buyers are more likely to have a lot at stake. The stakes are indeed higher for buyers, but if you’re a buyer, you won’t be the only person inspecting the apartment. In fact, if you’re financing your purchase, your lender will require you to hire an inspector.
Walk-throughs from a distance
When real estate was deemed an essential industry at the height of the pandemic, many brokers became used to giving tours via FaceTime or Zoom.
Final pro tips
Once again, if you’re buying a home, your walk-through will just be the first step. To close the deal, you’ll need to eventually have a licensed inspector complete an inspection. If you’re a renter, however, the walk-through may be the only time you get to assess the apartment and its current condition.
What to check when renting an apartment?
Out of all things to check when renting an apartment, don ' t forget the landlord ' s location. If the landlord lives overseas, you ' ll want to make sure there ' s a property manager nearby. For example, if a pipe burst in the morning and your landlord is sound asleep halfway around the world, the apartment could be a swimming pool before you get a callback.
What is apartment walkthrough?
Apartment walkthroughs are exactly how they sound—you ' re walking through the rental unit with the landlord to see if they need to address any issues before you move in. Identifying problems beforehand helps protect you from fees for damages that you didn ' t cause. With this apartment walkthrough checklist in hand, you ' re sure to find a great apartment to call your next home.
What does the common area of an apartment tell us?
The common areas of apartment buildings or complexes also tell a story about the unit, landlord, and neighbors. For example, if you notice that the entry, lobby, and stairwells are messy, that could mean inadequate care by the landlord or their tenants. No matter which contributes to the problem, it ' s still a problem, nonetheless.
What if my apartment has broken appliances?
If there are broken appliances and other items in the apartment, you ' ll want the landlord to fix them before you move in. If the landlord assures you that they ' ll fix or replace them after you move in, beware. Broken appliances could mean broken promises.
How to tell if a second floor unit is a ground unit?
That way, you can see the screen ' s tears, gaps, and other issues. This inspection also reveals if any screens are missing.
Can you see ash in an apartment fireplace?
If the place comes with a " working fireplace, " but you can ' t see ash, it may not work after all. Fireplace inspections during your apartment walkthrough can include:
Do landlords need credit checks?
The landlord says they don ' t need a credit check. Great, right? Not so fast. If they ' re willing to rent a unit to you without a credit check, imagine who could live in the apartment next door. Waiving the credit check could cause some pretty bad neighbors.
Why should you take an apartment walkthrough?
An apartment walkthrough is beneficial to both the landlord and the tenant. It protects the tenant by informing the landlord of issues that exist before they move in, so the tenant won't be stuck paying for repairs on things that weren't their fault.
Always do a walkthrough
There really isn't a good reason why you shouldn't do an apartment walkthrough. While it's helpful to both parties, it'll be most beneficial to you as a tenant, and it will help you take care of things that could have been issues for you later on. If your landlord doesn't offer to do one, make sure you ask about it.
About The Author
Morgen Henderson is a writer who grew up in Utah. She lived in the Dominican Republic for a year and a half, where she was involved in humanitarian service. Some of Morgen's work has appeared in State of Digital, The Next Scoop and TechPatio. In her free time, she loves to travel, bake, master DIY projects and improve her Spanish skills.
When conducting a rental walk-through, should you do a walk-through?
When conducting a rental walk-through, you should: When completing the move-in inspection with your tenant, it is important to track any damages to the property. By providing a rental inspection checklist (a copy for both of you), you can easily make note of any issues you see.
What is a rental walk through?
A rental walk-through is an inspection done by the landlord or property manager, oftentimes accompanied by the tenant (s), at the beginning and end of the lease. This walk-through is also called a move-in/move-out inspection because it happens at the beginning and end of the lease. Rental walk-throughs are important for both landlords and tenants.
Why is it important to have a move in inspection?
It’s important for both the landlord and tenant to walk through the property and use the checklist. The move-in inspection is a time for the tenant to take note of any potential issues that they want to avoid being charged for after they move out. Although some landlords and property managers may not request the tenant’s presence at ...
Why do landlords need move out inspections?
A move-out inspection allows the landlord to assess the property for any damage.
What to do during a move out walkthrough?
During the move-out walk-through, you can calmly discuss the property damage or necessary repairs, if any. Avoid taking note of every imperfection. Normal wear and tear happens in every residential property, and tenants shouldn’t expect a property that’s several years old to be in perfect condition.
Do you have to take note of dust during a move in?
The tenant shouldn’t have to make note of any build-up of dust or mildew during the move-in walk-through. As the landlord, it’s your job to provide a habitable living environment for your tenants, and properly repairing damages and thoroughly cleaning the rental before your next tenant moves in is a part of that job.
Can you add more than one bedroom to a rental?
You may add (or remove) any elements to personalize it to your rental. If there is more than one bedroom or bathroom in your unit, make sure to have an additional section for bedroom number two, bathroom number two, and so on. If you have more than one tenant moving in, they will only need to complete one walk-through checklist, ...
What Is A Walk-Through?
What Should I Look For During A Walk-Through? What Questions Should I ask?
- During your walk-through, take your time, be very observant, and pay attention to detail. As you walk around, take photos and videos of any damage you see. You should also take notes on your phone or a piece of paper. As a good rule of thumb, you want to make sure all the appliances work and are clean. Here are some questions you should ask yourself during a walk-through.
What Happens After The Walk-Through?
- After you are finished walking through the apartment with your landlord, address any concerns you have and discuss a plan to fix any damages. Follow up by sending your landlord or property manager a copy of your photos, videos, and notes in an email to document what you discussed. Keep a copy for your own records as well because you may need them when you move out.