What should landlords prepare before a renter moves in?

• Complete obvious repairs and maintenance before move-in where possible.
• Check doors, locks, windows, lights, stairs, flooring, plumbing, appliances and HVAC.
• Clean the property and remove leftover items unless they are part of the rental.
• Record the condition with photos before handover.

• Confirm keys, fobs, access codes, parking, mailbox access and building entry details.
• Share instructions for utilities, appliances, trash, recycling, Wi-Fi or building systems where relevant.
• Confirm the move-in date, time and handover process in writing.
• Provide emergency and maintenance contact instructions.

• Have the lease, addenda, move-in condition form and contact details ready.
• Keep records of supplied appliances, maintenance, service work and condition notes.
• Provide house rules, community rules or property manager instructions where relevant.
• Check local rules for any required notices, disclosures or documents.

• Tell the renter how to report issues after move-in.
• Explain how quickly urgent and non-urgent maintenance requests are usually handled.
• Confirm what should be reported immediately, such as leaks, lock issues or safety concerns.
• Keep communication in writing where possible.

• US landlord obligations vary by state, city and local authority. This page is general preparation guidance only and is not legal advice.
• Check official local housing rules before relying on any checklist for compliance decisions.

The LettingReady US checker helps turn preparation issues into a simple score and next-step request.