When you move into your new rental, it should be clean and all appliances in working order. This will be recorded in a condition report provided by the property manager or landlord at the time you take on the lease.
The document should clearly outline the state of the property at handover and acts as a reference guide to determine if there has been any damage caused by the tenant during the rental agreement.
After moving in, you should inspect the house thoroughly and make sure the report matches the condition of the house, before you sign and return it to the agent. Remember to keep a copy for yourself.
Take note of any damage including marks or chips on walls, stains on carpet, doors and windows that are jammed and broken locks. Also check the appliances and note the condition of any gardens.
Be sure to write anything down that is not already noted in the report.
Generally, you will have three days to fill out the condition report and raise any major concerns before you are required to submit a copy to the property manager.
Often landlords and tenants also like to submit photos as proof of the condition.
Once submitted and signed by the landlord, this condition report becomes an official record and can be used to determine whether a tenant is liable for any damage to the premise during their stay beyond general wear and tear.