Move-In Inspection Checklist: Act and Photo Evidence

Prepare before the walkthrough 📝

Before visiting the property, gather ID, any contract draft, a flashlight, a camera or smartphone, and a notebook. Arrange a time that allows access to all rooms and ask the owner or agent to have keys and documents ready. A calm, prepared inspection makes the handover smoother.

Room-by-room essentials 🔎

• Walls and ceilings: look for damp patches, cracks, uneven plaster or recent repair traces. Take both close-up and wide-angle photos.
• Floors and skirting: check for visible damage, loose tiles or warped boards and listen for creaks.
• Windows and doors: test seals, locking mechanisms and whether windows open smoothly. Note any broken handles or damaged frames.
• Electrical outlets and switches: test functionality and firmness. If you plan to use powerful appliances, discuss wiring capacity.

Bathroom and plumbing checks 🚿

Inspect under sinks for leaks, test hot and cold water flow, and check drainage speed for sinks and toilets. Photograph any mineral deposits, rust or wet spots. These images will be important evidence if repairs are needed.

Kitchen and appliances 🍽️

Check cabinets for structural issues and test built-in appliances if they remain. Run a short cycle or power-up where possible to ensure they function. Photograph serial numbers and any visible damage to appliances or surfaces.

Meters and documentation 📷

Photograph electricity, water and gas meter readings at the handover moment. Ask to see ownership documents or technical plans if available. Meter photos protect you from inheriting previous consumption bills.

Photo-evidence best practices 📸

• Capture a general shot of each room and detailed shots of defects.
• Photograph meter faces and appliance labels.
• If possible, include a timestamp on images or note date/time in your logbook.
• Take panoramic or wide shots of corridors to show room relationships.

What to include in the handover act ✍️

The act should list visible defects, meter readings, keys handed over, and items of furniture or equipment included. Record who attended the inspection and collect signatures. Use clear, concrete wording like "chip on kitchen countertop near the sink" rather than vague language.

Negotiation tips and remedies 🤝

If defects are found, agree on one of several options: repair before move-in, a monetary adjustment, or a schedule for remedial work. Get any agreed solution in writing. A documented compromise prevents later disputes.

Special notes for buyers and investors 💡

• Buyers should record all issues in the act, particularly for new developments where finishing works may be ongoing.
• Investors and landlords benefit from photo records at handover and return to speed up claims or deposit resolutions.

After the inspection — your follow-up checklist ✅

• Save all photos and the act in multiple places (cloud and local storage).
• If repairs were promised, note deadlines and responsibilities in writing.
• Consult a real estate professional or lawyer if you face resistance or unclear ownership documents.

Sample short phrases for the handover act ✍️

• "At handover: damp spot on kitchen wall, upper left corner — photo attached."
• "Meter readings: electricity photo attached."
• "Keys transferred: main entrance key, spare key; list attached."

Final thought — a stress-free move starts with documentation 🧳

A thorough inspection and clear photo evidence protect your rights and reduce surprises after moving in. If you need a handover template or a guided inspection, contact BuyHome — we can assist with the inspection and paperwork for your chosen property.

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