Tenant Turnover Checklist: Complete Make-Ready Guide for Landlords

Tenant turnover is one of the most critical times for rental property maintenance. A thorough make-ready process helps you attract quality tenants, justify rent prices, and document property condition. Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure nothing is missed.

Move-Out Process

Before Tenant Leaves

• [ ] Send move-out reminder 30 days before
• [ ] Provide move-out cleaning expectations
• [ ] Schedule move-out inspection date
• [ ] Remind tenant to forward mail
• [ ] Collect forwarding address for deposit

Move-Out Inspection

• [ ] Walk through with tenant present (if possible)
• [ ] Document condition with photos/video
• [ ] Note all damages beyond normal wear
• [ ] Compare against move-in documentation
• [ ] Have tenant sign inspection report
• [ ] Collect all keys, remotes, and access devices

Make-Ready Cleaning

Deep Cleaning Checklist

• [ ] Clean all appliances inside and out
• [ ] Degrease range hood and filter
• [ ] Clean oven (including racks)
• [ ] Defrost and clean refrigerator
• [ ] Run dishwasher cleaning cycle
• [ ] Clean inside all cabinets and drawers
• [ ] Wash all windows inside and out
• [ ] Clean window tracks and sills
• [ ] Scrub all bathrooms (tub, toilet, sink, tile)
• [ ] Clean light fixtures and ceiling fans
• [ ] Wipe down all doors and door frames
• [ ] Clean baseboards throughout
• [ ] Vacuum and mop all floors
• [ ] Steam clean carpets (or replace if needed)
• [ ] Clean garage and storage areas

Repairs and Maintenance

Safety Items (Priority)

• [ ] Test and replace smoke detector batteries
• [ ] Test carbon monoxide detectors
• [ ] Check fire extinguisher expiration
• [ ] Inspect all locks and deadbolts
• [ ] Check window locks
• [ ] Test GFCI outlets
• [ ] Inspect handrails and stairs

Walls and Ceilings

• [ ] Patch all nail holes
• [ ] Repair any wall damage
• [ ] Touch up or repaint as needed
• [ ] Clean or repaint ceilings if needed
• [ ] Check for water stains (investigate source)

Plumbing

• [ ] Check all faucets for drips
• [ ] Test toilet flush and fill
• [ ] Inspect under sinks for leaks
• [ ] Test garbage disposal
• [ ] Check water heater operation
• [ ] Inspect caulking around tubs/showers
• [ ] Snake drains if slow

Electrical

• [ ] Test all outlets
• [ ] Replace any non-working switches
• [ ] Check all light fixtures
• [ ] Replace burned-out bulbs
• [ ] Test doorbell
• [ ] Check outdoor lighting

HVAC

• [ ] Replace air filter
• [ ] Test heating and cooling
• [ ] Clean vents and returns
• [ ] Schedule service if needed

Appliances

• [ ] Test all appliances
• [ ] Clean or replace drip pans
• [ ] Check refrigerator seals
• [ ] Test dishwasher cycle
• [ ] Verify washer/dryer operation

Exterior (If Applicable)

• [ ] Inspect roof for damage
• [ ] Clean gutters
• [ ] Check exterior paint/siding
• [ ] Inspect deck or patio
• [ ] Test outdoor faucets
• [ ] Check landscaping
• [ ] Verify address numbers visible

Security Updates

• [ ] Rekey all locks (or replace)
• [ ] Reset garage door codes
• [ ] Change smart lock codes
• [ ] Update alarm system codes
• [ ] Check all entry points secure

Documentation

Before Marketing

• [ ] Take marketing photos
• [ ] Update listing description
• [ ] Document any remaining issues
• [ ] Create move-in inspection form
• [ ] Prepare welcome packet

Record Keeping

• [ ] File move-out inspection
• [ ] Document all repairs made
• [ ] Save receipts for work done
• [ ] Update maintenance records
• [ ] Calculate security deposit disposition

Turnover Timeline

TaskWhen

Move-out notice receivedDay 0 Schedule inspections/vendorsDay 1-3 Move-out inspectionMove-out day Begin make-ready workDay 1 after move-out Complete repairsDays 1-7 Deep cleaningDays 5-7 Final walkthroughDay 7-10 Marketing photosDay 7-10 List propertyDay 7-14

Tracking Multiple Turnovers

Managing turnover tasks across multiple properties is complex. FixReminder helps you:

• Create turnover task templates
• Track progress on each property
• Set deadline reminders
• Document completion

Start your free trial and streamline your turnover process.