Move-In Inspection

A move-in inspection is a structured walkthrough completed when a new resident takes possession of an apartment. It documents the unit’s condition at the start of the lease, including existing wear, damage, equipment condition, and any immediate maintenance needs. This creates a baseline that can later be compared with the move-out inspection.

Before handing over keys, the leasing or maintenance team walks the unit with the resident, records photos of carpet stains and appliance condition, notes a loose cabinet hinge, and creates a work order to repair it within the first week.

Move-in inspections help operations leaders reduce damage disputes, assign maintenance responsibility more clearly, and protect the property’s financial performance. A consistent inspection structure also makes move-out comparisons more reliable and helps teams identify recurring make-ready or maintenance issues across the portfolio.