When moving into a new rental home or apartment, the excitement of a fresh start can sometimes overshadow critical steps that protect both tenants and landlords. One such step is the move-in walkthrough — a process often skipped or rushed through, especially when the property looks sparkling clean and newly renovated.
But here's the truth: even the cleanest rental can have hidden issues, and skipping the walkthrough can lead to complications, disputes, and unexpected costs down the line. In this blog, we'll explore why you should always do a move-in walkthrough, how it benefits both parties, and what to look for during the process.
Whether you're a tenant moving into your new home or a landlord looking to protect your investment, this is a non-negotiable step you shouldn't miss — especially in a competitive Utah rental market.
What Is a Move-In Walkthrough?
A move-in walkthrough, also called a move-in inspection, is a formal review of the rental unit's condition before a tenant officially takes possession. This is often done with the tenant and landlord (or property manager) present and documented through photos, videos, or a detailed checklist.
The goal is to:
Record the existing condition of the property
Note any damage or maintenance issues present before the tenant moves in
Create a baseline reference for future inspections and move-out comparisons
Why It’s Essential — Even in a Clean Rental
Clean Doesn’t Mean Problem-Free
Just because a unit looks clean doesn’t mean it’s in perfect condition. A fresh coat of paint and a deep clean can make cosmetic flaws or more serious issues harder to detect. For example:
A small crack in a windowpane
Scratches under the rug or furniture marks on hardwood floors
Appliances that appear new but don’t function properly
Water stains hidden under a vanity or in the back of a closet
During the walkthrough, you have the chance to spot these subtle problems and document them before they become your responsibility.
Avoid Disputes at Move-Out
One of the most common disputes in Utah property management involves security deposit deductions. Without a clear, documented move-in condition, it becomes a case of “he said, she said” when determining whether damage occurred during the tenancy or was pre-existing.
A thorough move-in walkthrough protects:
Landlords, who can fairly hold tenants accountable for actual damages
Tenants, who can avoid being blamed for issues that were already there
Create a Maintenance Roadmap
Many walkthroughs uncover minor issues that aren’t necessarily tenant-caused but still need to be addressed. For example:
A loose cabinet hinge
A dripping faucet
A slow-draining tub
By catching these early and reporting them, tenants ensure a smoother living experience and landlords can stay ahead of preventive maintenance, saving money in the long term.
Strengthens Trust Between Landlord and Tenant
A walkthrough shows that the landlord or property manager is:
Transparent about the condition of the property
Willing to document everything clearly
Committed to fairness and accountability
Likewise, tenants who take the walkthrough seriously signal that they are responsible and detail-oriented. This builds mutual trust, which is the cornerstone of a successful rental relationship.
Legal Protection
In some states — including Utah — laws favor landlords who maintain proper documentation of property conditions. If legal disputes arise regarding damage or deposit refunds, the move-in checklist becomes a critical piece of evidence.
Without it, your case weakens considerably — especially if the matter ends up in small claims court or mediation.
What Should Be Included in a Move-In Walkthrough?
A thorough walkthrough covers every room and major system in the unit. Here's a quick checklist of key items to review:
Interior
Walls, ceilings, and flooring
Windows, blinds, and screens
Doors and door locks
Lighting fixtures and ceiling fans
Electrical outlets and light switches
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Kitchen
Appliances (stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave)
Cabinets and drawers
Sink and garbage disposal
Countertops
Bathrooms
Toilet functionality
Sink and faucet condition
Bathtub/shower
Mirrors and vanity
Bedrooms
Closets
Windows
Exterior (if applicable)
Balcony or patio condition
Outdoor lighting
Garage or parking area
Systems
HVAC (does heat and A/C work?)
Plumbing
Water heater access
Take photos or video footage during this process to supplement the checklist.
Tips for a Successful Move-In Walkthrough
Schedule it before moving furniture in — It's harder to spot issues once belongings are in the way.
Bring your own checklist — Many landlords provide one, but it’s okay to use your own or add to theirs.
Ask questions — If you notice something that seems odd, bring it up.
Get signatures — Both parties should sign the final report, and each should keep a copy.
Don’t rush it — Allocate at least 30–60 minutes, depending on the property size.
What Happens If You Skip It?
Skipping a move-in walkthrough can lead to:
Disputes over damage claims
Delayed or denied security deposit returns
Missed opportunities to fix problems early
Poor landlord-tenant relationships
Legal complications
These are especially important to avoid in a hot rental market like Salt Lake City, where competition is high and expectations for well-maintained properties continue to rise.
How Property Management Companies Streamline the Process
Experienced property management companies in Utah, like Wolfnest, take the move-in inspection seriously. We:
Provide standardized walkthrough forms
Conduct professional inspections
Offer digital photo documentation
Track maintenance issues in a centralized system
Ensure both tenant and owner are protected legally and financially
By managing this process thoroughly, we help tenants move in confidently and owners preserve the value of their investment.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let a clean appearance fool you — a move-in walkthrough is your best defense against future rental headaches. Whether you're a tenant trying to protect your deposit or a landlord seeking to maintain your property, documenting the condition of the unit from day one is essential.
Clean doesn’t always mean perfect — and perfect doesn’t mean immune to dispute. With a careful walkthrough, you lay the foundation for a smoother, more transparent rental experience.
At Wolfnest, we’re committed to providing peace of mind for both tenants and property owners. Our Salt Lake City-based property management team ensures that every move-in starts on the right foot, with clear expectations and proper documentation.
If you’re looking for a professional, proactive, and reliable property management company in Utah, contact Wolfnest today to learn how we can simplify your rental experience.
