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Thursday, September 17, 2009

The Benefits of Detailed Move-In Reports at Rental Properties

By Dana Powell

Move out reports and security deposit reconciliations are by far one of the least favorite things for landlords to conduct. Often is it because they don't know exactly what condition the property was in when the tenant moved in.

That is where the move-in report comes into play. Having a detailed move-in report will save you in the long run. You will have written documentation to hold the tenant accountable to.

When performing the move-in report, make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to be accurate and methodical in your records. This will save you headaches in the long run.

Having an established route you take when performing move-ins or outs help prevent any oversights. Many landlords start with the first room they come to when entering the house. Often it will be an entryway or living room. Now is the time where details matter; marking the entire living room as okay is severely lacking details.

Start from the ceiling and work your way down to the floors. Are there hooks or cracks in the ceiling? Is the popcorn crumbling in some areas? Check to see if the ceiling fan works properly. Make sure all the lights are all working properly

As soon as you finish one area (ceiling, walls, ceiling fans, etc.) move on to the next. Does the room have a sliding glass door? Is it in proper working order? Are there any blinds or drapes? Is the screen door free from dents or holes?

Now continue on this path throughout the house, make sure to check all the bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, dining room or area. Don't forget basements, garages, and utility or laundry rooms as well.

Taking pictures of the home is always a good idea, especially focus on areas of concern or new items through the house. Documenting the outside condition is vital as well. Check the exterior lighting and fences. Is the yard alive, recently mowed or raked?

After you have finished the report; review it with your tenant. Address any issues or questions they may have. Make certain the sign and date the form, and provide them a copy for their records. Also, allow them time to report any missed details, usually about 7 days. A report of a fist size hole through a bedroom door reported three months after they move-in is not tolerable.

Hopefully you can see why conducting a complete and comprehensive move-in report really is crucial. You wont mistakenly charge your tenant for damage that was already present; and you wont have to bear the costs of any new damage when they leave. - 23159

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