Move-out checklist: what to inspect before leaving a rental
Moving out is more than removing your belongings and handing over keys. Check the home against the move-in record, record meter readings and confirm which equipment and access items are returned. A checklist replaces memory with dated evidence. It does not decide a deposit refund; the lease, local law, owner and dispute process determine rights and duties.
Start with the move-in record
Open the move-in inspection and visit each room in the same order. Put old and current photos side by side where possible. Distinguish existing damage, ordinary wear and a new change without deciding liability yourself when the contract or law defines those terms.
Inspect each room
Check walls, ceilings, floors, carpets, doors, windows, blinds, locks, lights, switches, sockets, appliances, kitchen surfaces, sinks, ovens, bathrooms, furniture and serial numbers. Take a wide photo first, then close photos of differences. Describe locations precisely, such as “right bedroom corner”, rather than writing a general note.
Meters, keys, cleaning and repairs
Photograph the full meter face and reading, with date, type and unit if known. Count front-door, mailbox, storage and access-card items. Record cleaning and repairs without promising that every issue meets a legal standard. Keep invoices or before-and-after photos if you hired someone, and keep unresolved items in written communication.
Build and close the report
In RoomLedger select move-out, add photos, condition notes, meters, keys and signatures. Let both people review the record on one phone before signing. Export the PDF and ZIP, open them and keep a copy. The SHA-256 fingerprint helps check whether images changed after export; it does not prove who is right in a dispute. Create a move-out record with RoomLedger.
Note: This is not legal advice. RoomLedger does not guarantee a deposit outcome or how a local authority will assess the report.