End of Tenancy Landlord Checklist (Free Move-out Template)
Short answer: at the end of a tenancy, a landlord should collect every key, take final meter readings, compare each room against the check-in inventory with dated photos, separate fair wear and tear from damage, record anything left behind, get a forwarding address and agree the deposit return in writing. This free move-out checklist puts all of that in one document, as a printable PDF or an editable Word file.
Get the checklist
- Printable PDF, 5 pages, A4
- Editable Word version to add or remove rooms
- Pairs with our check-in inventory template
What the checklist contains
1. Property, tenancy and forwarding details
Tenancy start and end dates, check-out date, the date of the check-in report you are comparing against, and the tenant's forwarding address and contact details.
2. Keys and access items returned
Every key, fob and code, with the number issued at check-in against the number returned.
3. Final meter readings
Check-in and check-out readings side by side for electricity, gas, water and heating, with photo references.
4. Room-by-room comparison
Entrance and hall, living room, kitchen including appliances, bathroom, three bedrooms, and garden and exterior. Each item has At check-in, Now, Clean, Compare key and Notes columns.
5. Items left behind and safety equipment
What the tenant left and what will happen to it, plus a final check of alarms, extinguisher and fire blanket.
6. Deductions, deposit steps and signatures
Proposed deductions with evidence, a deposit return timeline with a space for your local deadline, and signature lines for landlord and tenant.
Preview: a room comparison
Each room is compared line by line against check-in. The compare key is S (same as check-in), W (fair wear and tear), D (damage), C (cleaning needed) or M (missing).
Kitchen (example)
| Item | At check-in | Now | Clean? | Compare key | Notes / photo ref |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oven, hob and grill | |||||
| Fridge / freezer (defrosted) | |||||
| Washing machine (drawer and seal) | |||||
| Worktops | |||||
| Floor |
How to run a move-out check
- Agree a check-out time with the tenant once their belongings are out, and have the signed check-in inventory to hand.
- Collect every key and fob and count them against what was issued.
- Read and photograph each meter and send the readings to the utility providers.
- Walk the rooms in the same order as the check-in inventory, comparing each item and taking dated photos from similar angles.
- For each change, decide honestly whether it is fair wear and tear or damage, allowing for the age of the item and the length of the tenancy.
- Record anything left behind and agree what happens to it.
- Note the forwarding address, then both sign the checklist and keep a copy.
- Send any proposed deductions in writing with evidence, and return the deposit within your local deadline.
Fair wear and tear vs damage
Most deposit disagreements come down to this distinction. A tenant is not expected to return a property in brand-new condition after years of normal living. Light scuffs, faded curtains and carpet worn along walkways are usually fair wear and tear. Burns, large stains, broken fittings and unapproved holes in walls are usually damage.
The comparison only works if you recorded the condition at the start. A dated photo at check-in, matched to the same item at check-out, is the clearest evidence for both sides. For more, see our guide to tenancy deposit disputes.
Starting a tenancy?
Use the matching landlord inventory and check-in report template so you have a signed baseline to compare against, or see all free landlord templates.
Frequently asked questions
What should a landlord check at the end of a tenancy?
Keys and access items returned, final meter readings, the condition and cleanliness of every room compared against the check-in inventory, any items left behind, safety equipment, and the tenant's forwarding address. Record it all with dated photos and have both parties sign.
What is the difference between fair wear and tear and damage?
Fair wear and tear is the gradual deterioration you would expect from normal use over the length of the tenancy, such as light scuffs, faded paint or slightly worn carpet. Damage goes beyond that, such as burns, stains, broken fittings or holes in walls. Deductions should only cover damage, and should allow for the age of the item.
Do I need a check-in inventory to use this checklist?
It works best with one. The move-out checklist compares the property now against what was recorded at the start. Without a signed check-in inventory it is much harder to show that any damage happened during the tenancy. Our free landlord inventory template is designed to pair with this checklist.
Should the tenant be present at check-out?
Where possible, yes. Walking the property together lets you agree most points on the day and reduces disputes later. If the tenant cannot attend, take thorough dated photos and send them a copy of the completed checklist.
How long do I have to return the deposit?
It depends on where your property is. Many countries and regions set a deadline and require deposits to be protected in a scheme. The checklist has a space to note your local deadline, but check the rules that apply to you.
Is the checklist free?
Yes. Enter your email and we send you the PDF and an editable Word version. There is no charge and no account needed.
This checklist and guide are general information, not legal advice. Deposit rules and deadlines differ by country and region.