New User Questions

The Master Checklist Every Landlord Needs

to do list

No matter how long you have been in this business, mistakes happen. Every good landlord should have a checklist of items needed before a tenant moves in. Here we have a sample 3-part checklist for you to use! Some items may not apply to your business or your properties (i.e. property items like sheds). You may disregard those if you would like.

Checklist #1: Items Needed

  • Rental application from tenant
  • Physical and digital folder for tenant created by you
  • Tenant background check
  • Tenant credit check
  • Employment Verification Form
  • Previous Landlord Verification Form
  • Copies of tenant ID card (back and front)
  • Lease agreement and addendums signed by tenant
  • Security deposit via certified method
  • First month’s rent via certified method
  • Renter’s insurance purchased by tenant
  • Rental Unit Condition Checklist signed by tenant

Checklist #2: Your Tasks

  • Explain rules and procedures to tenant (includes emergency procedures!)
  • Repair any damage on property (see checklist below)
  • Clean property (see checklist below)
  • Change locks (if applicable)
  • Transfer utilities to tenant’s name
  • Give tenant your contact information

Checklist #3: Cleaning/Repairing Property

  • Scan the entire property, from the street and from several angles in the yard
  • Inspect the driveway, sidewalk, and outdoor walkways.
  • Inspect lawn
  • Inspect fences
  • Remove any wood piles, trash bins, and recycling cans
  • Inspect sheds and barns
  • Inspect the backyard
  • Run sprinkler or irrigation systems to make sure they work properly.
  • Scan roof and chimney
  • Examine gutters
  • Check downspouts
  • Look for gaps or cracks in outside walls
  • Check to make sure each window has a screen and no cracks
  • Inspect property trim.
  • Test the stairs
  • Test any and all railings
  • Check porches and decks
  • Wash house exterior, regardless of anything you find while scanning the property
  • Inspect and test every door
  • Flip every light switch
  • Look at wall outlets
  • Inspect interior walls
  • Scan the ceiling
  • Check interior windows for mold
  • Test windows (and any locks they may have)
  • Inspect floors
  • Check smoke detectors
  • Clean refrigerator, fireplace, stove exhausts and similar items
  • Test toilets, sinks, bathtubs, and showers
  • Inspect bathroom walls and countertops
  • Test bathroom floor for any flimsiness
  • Check cabinet under every sink
  • Test bathroom fan
  • Test ground fault interrupters
  • Scan closets for damage
  • Check the stove
  • Scan refrigerator and freezer
  • Test garbage disposals, dishwashers, or other supplied appliances
  • Check floor and walls of basement, attic, and garage
  • Inspect plumbing
  • Check the electrical breaker box
  • Test furnace and air conditioning
  • Change furnace filters, smoke detector batteries and batteries for other safety devices
  • Clear dryer vents
  • Look for pests
  • Drain the hot water heater