California Move-In / Move-Out Inspection Checklist (Free Template)

A deposit deduction is only as strong as the record behind it. This checklist gives you one page per inspection, designed to be filled in next to a set of dated photos, so the before-and-after story is on file when you need it.

When to use it

Fill in the same form at three points, and keep each one with the tenant's file:

1. Before move-in, after cleaning and repairs and before the tenant takes possession.
2. After move-out, before you start any cleaning or repairs.
3. After repairs or cleaning, once the work is finished.

The reasons are in our photo documentation article, and what you do with the records is in the 21-day return rule.

Free template

Unit: _______________        Date: _______________
[ ] Before move-in   [ ] After move-out   [ ] After repairs/cleaning

Room-by-room condition (note damage, take dated photos for each room):
- Living room: _______________
- Kitchen (appliances, counters, cabinets): _______________
- Bathroom(s) (fixtures, caulking, ventilation): _______________
- Bedroom(s): _______________
- Flooring/carpet: _______________
- Walls/paint: _______________
- Windows/screens/locks: _______________
- Smoke/CO alarms present and tested: [ ] Yes [ ] No
- Keys/remotes/fobs returned: [ ] Yes [ ] No

Tenant signature: _______________    Landlord signature: _______________

Tips that make it hold up

• Photograph the same angles each time so the comparison is obvious.
• Note existing damage in writing, not only in photos.
• Ask the tenant to sign at move-in. A signed move-in form ends most arguments about what was already there.
• Keep photos where the original date metadata survives, not only in a chat thread.
• Include the alarm check; see our alarm article for what's required.

Related guides

• California Landlord Photo Documentation Requirement for Security Deposits
• California Security Deposit Return Deadline: The 21-Day Rule
• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Rules for California Rentals

This article is informational, not legal advice. For your specific situation, talk to a California landlord-tenant attorney.