Your property tells a narrative when a renter vacates, but in the absence of a clear procedure, that tale can easily escalate into disagreements and needless expenses. More significantly, tenants often find it challenging to vacate a rental property, particularly when it comes to receiving their security deposit back. That’s where a pre-move-out walkthrough comes in.
You can determine precisely what needs to be fixed before a tenant vacates if you conduct these walkthroughs correctly. Additionally, it ensures that tenants receive a precise and equitable deduction of their security deposit. However, how does this walkthrough safeguard security deposits, and what distinguishes it from a final inspection? Read on as we discuss more details below.
Difference of Walkthrough vs Final Inspection
The pre-move-out walkthrough is a review of the unit conducted by the landlord or property manager prior to the tenant’s actual vacating of the premises. During this time, both the tenant and landlord can review the property to determine if there are any damages, cleaning that needs to be done, and any other issues that are not considered normal wear and tear, allowing tenants to resolve them prior to leaving the unit. Here, Bay Property Management Group Texas can help reduce disputes by documenting changes in the property during the lease term.
The timing, purpose, and tenant participation of a pre-move-out walkthrough differ significantly from those of a final inspection. A pre-move-out walkthrough is typically completed two to four weeks before the lease expiration date, with the majority of tenants still residing in their unit. In contrast, final inspections are completed after a tenant has vacated the unit and returned their keys, when the unit is empty.
As a result of a pre-move-out walkthrough, a tenant may identify and address repair and cleaning issues before an inspection takes place, thereby safeguarding their security deposit. Scheduling a pre-move-out inspection early gives tenants time to fix small issues that could otherwise affect their security deposit. For a final inspection, a landlord will document the property’s condition before returning deposits and when deciding whether to charge the tenant additional fees.
Many tenants will attend a pre-move-out walkthrough to review the information obtained from the inspection and determine whether any repairs are necessary before vacating the premises. In contrast, only the landlord is present for the final inspection, since all tenants have departed.
Additionally, many property managers utilize pre-move-out walkthroughs to help reduce disputes by encouraging tenants to address items before moving out, while final inspections serve as an official record for legal and financial closure.
How Do Property Managers Use Walkthroughs to Protect Deposits?
The pre-move-out walkthrough is a method that allows a property manager to document the condition of a rental unit. It also helps identify damage caused by a tenant before they leave, and builds a reasonable amount of evidence to justify deducting security deposits from tenants. Documenting issues during the walkthrough allows tenants to remedy the problem before vacating.
Property managers typically use the results from pre-move-out and move-in walkthroughs to compare the condition of the unit and distinguish between normal wear and tear and damage. To ensure legality, property managers often require tenants to sign a detailed checklist that serves as a legal document for deducting the security deposit.
In addition to being required by law in many states to conduct a walkthrough, property managers are often legally obligated to provide tenants with an itemized receipt of any deductions made within a certain period, typically 30 days. This enables property managers to protect themselves from tenants’ claims in court.
It is essential to schedule a pre-move-out walkthrough immediately after receiving notice of a tenant’s intent to vacate, invite the tenant to participate in the walkthrough, and utilize digital means to document the results. Immediate availability of inspection results to the tenant helps them make repairs and, therefore, receive a full security deposit refund as soon as possible.
Final Thoughts
Pre-move-out walkthroughs are one of the most important aspects of the rental process, offering a fair and transparent means for landlords and tenants to resolve any issues before the tenant vacates the property. A comprehensive walkthrough helps landlords document the property’s condition and prevent conflicts. Additionally, pre-move-out walkthroughs can help maximize the chances of receiving a complete return of the security deposit.
Remember that the foundation of a smooth pre-move-out walkthrough is clear communication and comprehensive documentation. This way, it’s easy for both you and the tenant to point out any damage, any part that needs cleaning, and problems that require repair. Also, give the tenants a chance to explain themselves and praise those who did a good job of maintaining the property. By following the best practices outlined in this guide for these walkthroughs, you can help create a smooth transition for tenants and protect your investment.