Move-in and move-out checklist

Before you unpack

• Walk through every room with the landlord or agent
• Photograph and film each room, ceilings, floors, inside cupboards and appliances
• Note every mark, scratch, stain and chip in the inventory, room by room
• Check that everything on the inventory is there and works
• Test taps, showers, toilet flush, hot water and heating
• Test every light, socket, the oven, fridge and washing machine
• Look for damp or mould, especially in bathrooms and wardrobes

Paperwork

• Photograph the meters (electricity, water, gas) with readings visible
• Both sign the inventory and keep a copy
• Get a receipt for the deposit, and where it is held
• Note the landlord's contact details and the emergency number for repairs
• Ask how bins, recycling and building rules work

First week

• Put utilities and internet in your name if the lease says so
• Register your address where required
• Get contents insurance for your belongings
• Report any defect you missed, in writing, within the first days

Notice

• Give notice in writing, on time, as the lease requires
• Agree the check-out date and time with the landlord

The home

• Clean thoroughly, including oven, fridge, extractor and windows
• Repair anything you damaged, or agree a cost
• Fill nail holes if you hung pictures, if the lease requires it
• Put back anything you moved or stored away
• Remove all your belongings and rubbish

Handover

• Do the check-out inventory together and compare with the first one
• Photograph every room again, and the meters
• Return all keys and remotes, and get a signed receipt
• Give your forwarding address and bank details in writing
• Close or transfer utilities and internet
• Ask for the deposit back in writing, with the legal deadline if there is one