Before you rent, inspect the unit thoroughly. Take notes on:
Items to be inspected
Overall cleanliness. How much upkeep is the unit getting or will it need?
Locks and doors. Are they sturdy and weatherproof? Do they provide ample security?
Storage space. Is there enough for your possessions?
Living space. Is there enough room for your furniture? Try to imagine how your large items will fit and be placed in each room. Bring measurements of your furniture and a measuring tape. (Also measure doorways to ensure your furniture will fit!)
Appliances. Do they operate properly? Do all stove elements heat up? Does the refrigerator seal tightly?
Walls. Is the paint chipping? Are there cracks or holes that need repair? Are any tiles chipped or missing?
Electrical outlets, phone jacks and cable outlets. Are there enough to handle your needs?
Lighting. If there are overhead lights, are they bright enough for your needs or will you need to get lamps?
Bathrooms. Is there mould on the tiling or grout? Is the caulking sound? Do toilets flush properly? Is the sink leaking? Are the drains clogged?
Faucets. Test every sink, tub and shower to ensure that hot and cold water work everywhere. How long does it take for water to heat? Do any faucets drip? Does the water run clear? Is there enough water pressure?
Carpet and flooring. Is it clean, worn, discoloured or ripped?
Floor and window trim. Is it stained, leaking, cracking or loose?
Windows. Are they in good repair? Do they open and shut smoothly? Are they drafty? Do the locks work?
Patios, decks and balconies. Are they in good repair? Are railings and barriers secure?
Rodents and insects. Is there any evidence of infestation?
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Are there enough? Do they work properly? When were batteries last changed?
Noise level (in apartment buildings). Does noise from outside and other apartments pass into your apartment?
PDF files can be viewed with Adobe Acrobat Reader. This program is available as a free download from Adobe (also acts as a plug-in for Netscape).
Put it in writing.
Make a thorough list of all issues you see in your inspection. Give a copy to your landlord as an addendum to your rental agreement. By doing this, you are documenting that you are not responsible for damage that occurred before you moved in.
Also put in writing pre-existing damage that requires repair, along with a time frame in which you’d like the work done. Keep a copy for your records. You may also wish to take date-stamped “before” and “after” photos.
Take one last look.
Before you move out, you may want to do a closing inspection with your landlord to ensure that you agree on what damage has or has not occurred during your tenancy—and what (if any) repairs you’re liable for. (Some provinces require a written inspection by law. Click here for links to laws relating to residential rentals in your province or territory.)
