A walk-through, also known as a landlord/tenant walk-through or a move-in/move-out inspection. Takes place at the beginning and end of a lease. During a move-in walk-through.

The new tenant (with or without the landlord or property manager) inspects the property for any potential problems that must be addressed. It’s also a good time to document any problems that existed prior to their arrival.

During a move-out walk-through, the landlord or property manager of any property (let’s say Lahore Smart City or any other new project) with or without the tenant’s presence inspects. The property for any potential damages or issues that must be addressed before a new tenant can move in.

Let us take you some of the basic information about a walk-through. 

Charge a Security Deposit at the time of move-in

After you’ve approved a renter’s application. You should inform them of the fees that must be paid on move-in day. A security deposit, a non-refundable pet fee, a pet deposit, an administrative fee, and so on. It is critical to require a security deposit to cover any property damage caused by a tenant’s stay.

It is in your best interest to learn about payment plans and installment schedules in advance. For instance, Lahore Smart City payment plan information can be taken from the official website or a real estate agent before you plan to move in the new property.

A security deposit will not cover normal wear and tear or help you pay for new upgrades. It will assist you in resolving damage caused by the tenant. If the security deposit is insufficient to cover the damage. you may need to consider sending a letter to the tenant requesting additional payment along with an itemized security deposit deduction form.

Unauthorized Changes to the Unit are Considered Damaged

Throughout the lease, tenants may ask their landlord. They are permitted to make changes to the unit to spruce it up. Perhaps they’d like to change the color of the walls or install a new light fixture in the kitchen. 

If the lease you both signed allows for such changes, you cannot consider the property damaged upon move-out. However, if the tenant does not seek approval or double-check their lease before making changes. This could be considered property damage or a breach of their lease terms. If you do not want tenants to make physical changes to your property, make that clear in the lease.

Make Before-and-After Photos and Videos

You most likely already have excellent photos of your rental property on your online listing. It’s important to take before and after photos (and videos) of your unit for your own personal records. This is yet another way for you and your tenant to have proof of how the unit looked at move-in and move-out. 

The date the photos were taken will appear on your camera roll. If taken on your smartphone, and the same goes for videos. The tenant may also use photographs taken on move-in day to demonstrate that a problem with the unit occurred prior to their arrival. If the tenant fails to show up for the move-out walk-through and you discover damage,

Make before-and-after photos and videos

You most likely already have excellent photos of your rental property on your online listing. It’s important to take before and after photos (and videos) of your unit for your own personal records. This is yet another way for you and your tenant to have proof of how the unit looked at move-in and move-out. 

The date the photos were taken will appear on your camera roll. If taken on your smartphone, and the same goes for videos. The tenant may also use photographs taken on move-in day to demonstrate that a problem with the unit occurred prior to their arrival. 

The Walk-Through Move-Out

The move-out column of the checklist should be completed by both of you on the day.  your tenant moves out and after all of their belongings have been removed. If you want, take a second set of photos and videos for your before-and-after record. You have the option of conducting the move-out walk-through without the tenant (as long as you follow state and local laws).

However, it is recommended that you do the walk-through with the tenant present. During the walk-through, take note of any damages or issues that you or the tenant observe.

If there are any damages, discuss them with the tenant and come to a mutually agreed-upon solution. If necessary, you can refer to the lease agreement or state and local laws for guidance.

After the walk-through, both you and the tenant should sign and date the move-out checklist to acknowledge. The property was inspected and any damages were address.

Determining What is Normal Wear and Tear

Normal wear and tear is a term that is used to describe the natural aging process of a property. For example, a carpet may become worn out over time due to foot traffic. But this is not considered damage.

On the other hand, if the tenant spills red wine on the carpet and leaves a permanent stain. That is considered damage.

It is important to understand the difference between normal wear and property damage.

It affects how the security deposit is used. If the property damage exceeds the amount of the security deposit, the tenant may be responsible for paying the difference.

Use a Checklist

A move-in/move-out checklist is a useful tool to make sure you do not miss any important details during the walk-through. A checklist should include items such as the walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, appliances, and so on. You can create your own or use a pre-made checklist, but make sure to customize it to fit your property.

A move-in/move-out checklist can also be helpful in resolving disputes. This could be considered property damage or a breach of their lease terms. If you and your tenant disagree on the condition of the property. You can refer to the checklist to see. There is any documented evidence to support your case.