Every landlord aims to retain quality tenants for as long as possible, but there will come a time when you need to prepare for tenant turnover. Having a comprehensive move-in/move-out (MIMO) checklist ready can streamline the transition for both you and your tenants.
Read on to discover the significance of MIMO checklists and how they can benefit both landlords and tenants.
Table of Contents
What is a Move-In/Move-Out Checklist?
Why is a Move-In/Move-Out Checklist Essential for Tenants and Landlords?
What is Ordinary Wear and Tear?
What is Beyond the Scope of Ordinary Wear and Tear?
What to Include in a Moving-Out Checklist
A Tenant To-Do Move-Out Checklist
6 Common Move-Out Inspection Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Take the Stress Out of the Move-Out Process
Tenant Move-Out Checklist FAQs
What is a Move-In/Move-Out Checklist?
A MIMO checklist is a document that landlords and tenants use to record the condition of a rental property at the start and end of the tenancy. This form allows both parties to compare the property's condition upon move-in with its state upon move-out, noting any new damage beyond normal wear and tear that needs to be addressed before the tenant departs.
Why is a Move-In/Move-Out Checklist Essential for Tenants and Landlords?
A MIMO checklist provides a physical record of the property's condition at the beginning and end of a tenancy. In California, landlords can utilize the security deposit to cover unpaid rent, cleaning fees, repairs, and the replacement of personal property. Landlords must supply tenants with an itemized list of deductions and return any remaining deposit within 21 days of the move-out date.
This checklist helps minimize disputes over withheld security deposits, as both parties will have a clear record of the property's condition. It's also vital to take photos to back up any claims of damage. At Andren Homes, for example, we document every property with between 100-300 move-in photos, covering areas like:
Back of doors/behind doors
Under sinks, prone to water damage
Around toilets, in case of backups
Tub/shower enclosures
Landscaping
This thorough documentation ensures that in case of disputes, both the checklist and photos provide clear evidence.
What is Ordinary Wear and Tear?
Ordinary wear and tear refers to the natural decline of a rental unit over time. This includes items like worn carpets, faded paint, or minor nail holes. Tenants are not accountable for these unavoidable signs of aging.
What is Beyond the Scope of Ordinary Wear and Tear?
Tenants can be held responsible for damage that exceeds ordinary wear and tear. This includes:
Abuse/misuse: Intentional damage, like staining a bathtub by dyeing clothes.
Negligence: Carelessness, such as failing to report a leak that leads to significant damage.
Failure to warn: Not reporting potential issues, like a small leak that eventually causes water damage.
Accidents: Damage resulting from unintended events, like spilling a drink on the carpet.
Wear and Tear vs. Damage: What’s the Difference?
Ordinary Wear and Tear: Worn carpets, faded paint, minor scuffs.
Damage: Cigarette burns, cracked tiles from dropping dishes, holes in walls, or missing fixtures.
What to Include in a Moving-Out Checklist
A comprehensive move-out checklist should cover every area of the rental property, room by room, from floors to ceilings. Here’s what to include:
Property address
Tenant’s forwarding address
Landlord’s contact information
Move-out date and inspection date
Sections for each room and all major features
Space for additional comments
Tenant and landlord signatures
A Tenant To-Do Move-Out Checklist
Providing tenants with a to-do checklist before they move out can help ensure they leave the property in good condition. It’s a practical step to facilitate a smooth process and minimize disputes.
6 Common Move-Out Inspection Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Poor Communication: Confirm move-out dates and discuss how to handle keys, devices, and remotes.
Premature Deposit Promises: Avoid promising security deposit returns before conducting a thorough inspection.
Incomplete Inspections: Be thorough—inspect every room and document the condition with photos.
Aggressive Deductions: Understand the difference between normal wear and tear and actual damage.
Multiple Roommates: Confirm move-out plans with all tenants to avoid confusion.
Late Deposit Returns: In California, landlords must return deposits within 21 days or provide an itemized deduction list.
Take the Stress Out of the Move-Out Process
At Andren Homes, we’ve managed numerous properties and understand the complexities of tenant move-ins and move-outs. Our team takes care of all the details to ensure the process is as seamless as possible for both landlords and tenants.
Tenant Move-Out Checklist FAQs
What is a tenant responsible for when moving out in California?
Tenants must clean the unit, remove their belongings, provide 30 days’ written notice, and pay rent for the notice period.
Is a move-out inspection required in California?
While not legally required, tenants have the right to an initial inspection, allowing them to address issues before the final move-out inspection.
What is considered normal wear and tear on a rental property?
Normal wear and tear includes minor scuffs, faded paint, and worn-out flooring that occurs over time.
What repairs are tenants responsible for in California?
Tenants are responsible for fixing or paying for any damage beyond normal wear and tear caused by themselves, their guests, or their pets.
By following these guidelines, landlords and tenants can ensure a smooth and fair move-out process.
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Logan Andren
Logan Andren is the founder and CEO of Andren Homes Property Management. Since launching the company, Logan and his dedicated team have simplified the rental property experience for numerous Santa Cruz homeowners. Their mission is to enhance the lives of their clients and community, focusing on providing exceptional service and fostering lasting relationships. DRE #02002055
Get in touch with us:
✆ : (831) 291-5043
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