When is the best time to complete a move-in inspection with your tenant?

Before the tenant moves belongings

The ideal time is after cleaning is done but before the tenant brings in furniture. An empty unit lets you photograph every surface without boxes in the way.

Once belongings arrive, marks get hidden and the baseline becomes murky. An empty walkthrough captures the truest starting condition.

Do it with the tenant present

Walking the unit together builds trust. The tenant sees exactly what you are documenting and can point out anything they notice.

Shared observation reduces future disputes. When both parties agree on the starting condition, move-out becomes far less contentious.

Same day as key handover

Aligning the inspection with the key handover keeps the timeline clean. The condition you record is the condition on the day the tenant takes possession.

This also fits naturally into move-in day. The tenant is already there, so the walkthrough adds only a short, worthwhile step.

Give the tenant a copy

Share the completed inspection with the tenant, ideally with a chance to add their own notes within a few days. Transparency now prevents arguments later.

A shared baseline benefits everyone. It protects the tenant's deposit and protects you from claims that damage was pre-existing. Rules vary by state, so this is general guidance, not legal advice.