Move-in and move-out photo records

Why is a check-in inventory important for tenants?

Read the inventory or condition report carefully and check it against the actual rooms, furniture and appliances. Record existing damage, missing items or descriptions you disagree with, and ask your landlord or agent to record corrections in writing.

Keep a copy of the agreed inventory and the messages about any changes. Photos support an inventory; they do not automatically replace it.

What photos should you take when moving into a rented home?

• Take a wide view of each room and close-ups of existing marks or damage.
• Record walls, ceilings, floors, doors and windows.
• Include provided furniture, appliances and fittings.
• Record kitchens, bathrooms and any outside areas included in the tenancy.
• Take meter readings where relevant and keep them with the date.

Keep original files and add short notes identifying the room. Avoid including faces, personal documents or unrelated possessions.

What if there was no check-in inventory?

Take your own dated photos as soon as possible after moving in, and send them or a short written summary to your landlord or agent so there is a record they received. It is not a signed inventory, but it is far better than having nothing.

How to keep a record of changes during the tenancy

Save repair reports, replies, agreed alterations and visit records alongside your starting condition record. If something changes, add a dated update rather than replacing earlier entries.

How to document move-out condition before returning keys

After cleaning and removing your belongings, photograph the same rooms and items where possible, including close-ups of areas noted at move-in.

Ask for a check-out inventory and keep a copy, including any disagreement you raise. Record the handover date, key return and final meter readings.

How to compare check-in and check-out photos fairly

A home will not look identical after normal use. Fair wear and tear matters, so avoid treating every difference as damage or assuming photos alone decide who is responsible.

If there is a deposit disagreement, ask for the reasons and evidence in writing and check your deposit scheme's process using the links below.

Save a copy you can keep

Before moving out, gather the inventory, condition photos, repair history and handover notes somewhere you can access after leaving. RentMint lets you record move-in condition and move-out handover alongside your other logs. When saving a report on your phone, check it appears in the Files or Downloads location you chose.