Free tool
Inspection Checklist Generator
Build a room-by-room property inspection checklist customized for your property. Pick the property type, bedrooms, bathrooms, and extras — then print or save as PDF.
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Short answer
A property inspection checklist should cover every room the tenant occupies, with specific items for walls, floors, fixtures, and appliances in each. This generator builds a checklist customized to your property — select the type, bedrooms, bathrooms, and any extras like a garage or pool, then print it or save as PDF.
What to look for during an inspection
A good inspection documents facts, not opinions. For each room:
- Surfaces: Walls, ceilings, floors, countertops — note holes, stains, scratches, and water damage.
- Fixtures: Test every faucet, outlet, switch, and appliance. Note anything that does not work.
- Safety: Test smoke detectors and CO detectors. Check window locks and exterior door locks.
- Exterior: For houses and duplexes, walk the perimeter and check the driveway, fencing, and visible roof condition.
Photograph each item as you check it. A checklist without photos is a checklist without evidence.
Frequently asked questions
What should a move-in inspection checklist include?
A thorough move-in checklist covers every room and area the tenant has access to. For each room, document the condition of walls, floors, ceilings, fixtures, appliances, windows, and doors. Include the kitchen, every bathroom, all bedrooms, plus shared areas like hallways, garage, and outdoor spaces. The goal is to establish baseline condition so you can compare at move-out.
Is a move-in inspection required by law?
Requirements vary by state. Some states, like California and Virginia, require landlords to offer a pre-move-out inspection. Others, like Georgia, have no inspection requirement. Even in states without a mandate, a documented move-in inspection protects both the landlord and tenant in deposit disputes.
How detailed should a rental inspection be?
Detailed enough to stand up in a deposit dispute. Each item should be specific and observable: "scuff mark on wall near bedroom door" is better than "walls OK." Photograph every item you note, and use the same checklist at move-in and move-out so the comparison is apples to apples.
Can I customize this checklist for my properties?
Yes. The generator lets you select property type, bedroom and bathroom count, and optional areas like a garage, basement, pool, or yard. The output adapts to your configuration. You can print it directly from your browser or save it as a PDF using your browser's print dialog.
Should I use the same checklist for move-in and move-out?
Yes. Using the same room-by-room structure at both move-in and move-out makes side-by-side comparison straightforward. Document condition in each column during the respective inspection, then compare the two to identify changes beyond normal wear and tear.
Run your inspections in ProFlow360
Capture room-by-room photos on your phone, compare move-in and move-out side by side, and generate an evidence package — all from one app. No card required to start.
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