When it’s time for a tenant to move out, you want the process to go as smoothly as possible so new tenants can be moved in quickly and comfortably.
Much of the move-out process is about ensuring the previous tenant adheres to the contract and leaves you with as little to do as possible. While you obviously can’t control everything, a clear process coupled with frequent communication helps your tenants do their part and ensure everything goes smoothly. You don’t want to be left responsible for removing old furniture or fixing broken items once you’ve returned the deposit.
Run this checklist every time a tenant is moving out to prepare the property for the next tenant while making sure you do not incur any lost revenue or have to face a messy legal situation.
Ensure adequate notice has been given by the tenant
The tenant should provide you with a written notice to move out. This should clearly state the reason for moving out and a specific date for when it will take place. The date they select must give you enough notice as stated in the lease agreement.
Property inspection
Once the move-out date has been confirmed, conduct a walk-through inspection of the property to document any damage as well as cleaning and general maintenance needs.
This is also an essential step in evaluating what portion (if not all) of the security deposit will be paid back to the tenant once they have vacated.
Keep in mind that some things need to be checked in every room, while others are unique to specific rooms. For example, you will obviously only need to inspect a stove in the kitchen, whereas flooring, walls, doors, locks and windows will need to be inspected in all rooms.
Send email to schedule inspection
Contact the tenant to schedule an inspection date for you to evaluate the overall condition of the property.