Your Easy-to-Use Apartment Walkthrough Checklist

You’ve found a great new apartment. The rent is right, the location is perfect, and you’re ready to move in. But before you sign that lease or start packing up the moving truck, you’ll want to do an apartment walkthrough to make sure your apartment is all you hoped it would be. Use this apartment walkthrough checklist to make sure you know what to look for.

An apartment inspection is an essential step you should take before committing to your lease. An apartment walkthrough is just what it sounds like: You walk through the apartment with the landlord or rental agent to see if there are any issues that should be fixed before you move in. Identifying these issues now will help you avoid fees for damages that you didn’t cause when you move out. By following an apartment inspection checklist, you can more easily spot issues that could prevent you from getting your full security deposit back. And if there is a situation that occurs while you live there, the right renters insurance policy can back you up.

Apartment Walkthrough Checklist

For your walkthrough, bring your phone and something to write on so you can document any issues. Here are some of the things you’ll want to look for when touring an apartment.

The Kitchen

• Check the oven. Are the burners and interior clean? Does it turn on?
• Open the fridge and freezer. Make sure they’re both cold and the freezer is free of ice buildup.
• Look inside the dishwasher. Is the interior clean? Does it start?
• Turn on the kitchen sink. Does it drain properly? Is the faucet leaking? If applicable, check the garbage disposal to ensure it works.
• Examine the countertops. Are there are scratches, nicks or burn marks?

The Bathroom(s)

• Turn on the shower. How’s the water pressure? Does the shower or tub faucet leak?
• Check the sink to make sure it drains well and doesn’t leak.
• Turn on the light fixtures to make sure they work.
• Flush the toilet — better safe than sorry!
• Are there any cracked tiles?

Security

• Check the locks. Do they all work?
• Ensure there are smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Test them to ensure they’re on and working.
• If there’s a security system, make sure it’s functioning.

The Whole Apartment

• Check outlets to make sure they work (a phone charger is great for this).
• Open and close each door to make sure they work properly.
• Test the windows. Do they open and close, and are the screens and panes in good condition?
• Check the carpet and make note of any stains, tears or damage.
• Scan the walls for discoloration or marks.

After Your Apartment Inspection

After the apartment inspection is complete, discuss any concerns you noted in the apartment walkthrough checklist with the landlord or rental agent. Then, compile your notes of the issues and any pictures you took to send to the landlord in an email. This is a good way to document what you discussed and keep your landlord accountable. Be sure he or she follows up with how these issues will be addressed and keep your notes and records — they may come in handy when you move out.

Home Is Where the Heart Is
Your home — and the other things that matter most to you — protected? Farm Bureau offers a range of products to meet your needs. Whether you need renters insurance, life insurance or anything in between, your local Farm Bureau agent can help.