Last Updated on February 25, 2025 by Kari-Ann Ryan
Stumbling on a brand-new apartment with all the bells and whistles is a dream. However, before officially signing the lease, it’s crucial would-be renters perform a walkthrough to detect any issues. Here’s what to look for when conducting a walkthrough of a potential new apartment.
What is a walkthrough?
A walkthrough is a straightforward process: walking through the apartment with the landlord or leasing agent, looking for signs of damage that must be fixed prior to moving in. This tour allows would-be renters to get a sense of the condition of the apartment before signing the lease.
Determining if the apartment is a good fit is key. By visiting the rental in person, the potential tenant learns about loud noises from traffic, a faulty dishwasher or stains on the carpeting. It’s important to screen the unit for issues that may detract from living there.
Lingering tobacco scents from previous tenants may prompt a future tenant to request a cleaning before moving in. The tour also allows the potential renter to notice the placements of stairwells and elevators that may affect their decision to move into the apartment.
A walkthrough is also necessary to identify any damages that may be present. The would-be renter is not responsible for paying fees due to damages that exist prior to them moving in. The walkthrough documents existing damages the landlord should fix before the new tenant arrives.
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How does the would-be tenant prepare?
A potential tenant should come prepared for the walkthrough. Bring a digital camera or a phone to take photos of damages or questionable conditions. Jot down any findings on a notepad. A flashlight is useful for lighting up dark corners that may conceal problematic areas.
What is included in a walkthrough checklist?
1. Safety Features
Firstly, the would-be tenant should prioritize safety features in the apartment. Look for proper fire safety equipment, such as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. These devices should function upon moving in. Also check that a properly working fire extinguisher is accessible.
2. Doors and Windows
During the walkthrough, check the doors and windows to ensure they open and close properly. The doorknobs should feel secure upon turning, instead of wobbly. Request keys in the event multiple door locks are installed. Check for drafts from the windows and make sure the screens are intact.
3. Kitchen
Test each kitchen appliance, like the stove, garbage disposal, and fridge, to ensure they operate. The oven burners should be clean and the sink should drain. Check the temperature inside the fridge and freezer and ensure the latter does not contain ice. Make a note of scratches on kitchen cabinets.
4. Bathrooms
The faucets in the bathrooms should run upon opening. Check for hot water and the level of water pressure. Run the water in both the sink and bathtub to ensure they drain properly. Check for leaks under the sink during the process. Flush the toilets to determine if they work.
5. Bedrooms
During the walkthrough of the bedroom, look for signs of structural damage, like cracks in the baseboards and walls. Flip the light switches on and off to ensure they work. Turn on the AC, being aware of unusual sounds or smells—as the latter requires a filter replacement.
6. Living Room
If the rental unit comes with a fireplace, ensure it is in good working condition. Pay attention to the aesthetics of the room, focusing on visible nail holes in the walls, chipped paint, or stains on the carpet. Open and close the blinds to make sure they function properly.
7. Laundry Room
A washer and dryer may be installed in the apartment. If so, turn them on to check that they work. Alternately, the apartment may have a communal laundry room. Visit the onsite laundry facility to check that it is well-maintained and ask about safety features, like tenant-only access.
8. Whole Apartment
All the lights should turn on in the apartment and not flicker. Test the outlets, too, by plugging in a phone charger. Ensure the apartment has good cell reception. Examine the ceilings and floors for signs of water damage, such as peeling paint, warping, musty odors, and water stains.
Point the flashlight into dark corners, under sinks, and inside closets to check for signs of rodent infestations. Telltale signs of mice or other pests include small, dark droppings or gnaw marks on the walls. Nests usually consist of shredded material in secluded areas.
Upon completing the walkthrough, a would-be tenant should have a better sense of the apartment’s condition—and whether or not they want to sign the lease. Repairs may need to be scheduled. Also sign a document noting the agreed-upon condition of the property.
If your walkthrough proves successful, you may want to move in right away. Mid-West Moving & Storage is prepared with the experienced movers and equipment to help you relocate with ease. Our moving crews expertly handle navigating the stairs and tight spaces frequently found in apartments.
We coordinate the moving day and time with the apartment manager to circumvent parking challenges and avoid inconveniencing existing tenants. When moving into certain apartments in the city of Chicago, our professional movers reserve the elevators to prevent delays or interruptions.
As a comprehensive residential moving service, we offer numerous conveniences. Along with custom packing services, we provide short- and long-term storage options. Our moving crews are available to assemble and install furniture, such as beds. We also provide a full inventory of your belongings.
Our apartment movers are licensed and insured to give customers maximum peace of mind. Your possessions are treated with care and crews take protective measures, such as furniture wrapping to prevent damage to your home at both the origin and the destination.
Mid-West Moving & Storage is the go-to professional mover for individuals and families moving into or out of the city or suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. Our commitment to quality service, efficiency, and budget-friendly moves earn our customers’ trust and satisfaction. Call today to schedule your upcoming move.
