📄 New York Move-In / Move-Out Inspection Checklist
Security Deposit Protection — Both Landlord & Tenant
Best Practice — Critical for Deposits: A move-in / move-out inspection checklist is your primary defense in a security deposit dispute. Document the condition of every room at move-in and move-out with signatures from both landlord and tenant. Without this, courts often rule against landlords in deposit deduction cases. Complete both at walkthrough with tenant present.
🏠 Property & Inspection Info
🕑 Move-In Condition (Complete at Move-In)
Rate each item: G = Good / F = Fair / P = Poor / NA = Not Applicable. Note specific damage in comments.
🕑 Move-Out Condition (Complete at Move-Out)
✏️ Signatures
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A thorough move-in / move-out inspection checklist is the most important tool for protecting your right to make security deposit deductions. Courts routinely rule in tenants' favor when landlords cannot document pre-existing conditions versus damages caused by the tenant.
Best Practices for the Walkthrough
- Complete with tenant present: Have the tenant sign the move-in checklist before or on the first day of the tenancy
- Photograph everything: Date-stamped photos of every room, every imperfection
- Both parties sign: Tenant's signature acknowledges the documented condition
- Keep both copies: Landlord and tenant each get a signed copy
At Move-Out
Compare move-out conditions to the signed move-in checklist. Any damage beyond normal wear and tear is deductible. Use this checklist alongside the Security Deposit Itemization. See NY security deposit laws.
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⚖ Legal Disclaimer
This form is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. New York landlord-tenant law is complex and varies between upstate NY and NYC. Improper notice or procedure can result in case dismissal and penalties. Consult a qualified New York landlord-tenant attorney before proceeding. See our editorial standards for accuracy details.
