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Property management glossary
Maintenance & operations

Move-in inspection

Plain-English definition

A documented review of a rental’s condition at the start of occupancy.

What move-in inspection means in practice

The inspection establishes a dated baseline using a consistent room-by-room checklist, notes, and photos. Residents should have the opportunity required by local law or the lease to review and report discrepancies.

Example

Before keys are handed over, the manager records the flooring, appliances, walls, fixtures, meters, and existing damage with timestamped photos.

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This glossary is educational and not legal, tax, lending, or accounting advice. Rules and terminology can vary by jurisdiction and professional context.