Let’s be honest - moving into a new apartment or getting ready to move out can be exciting, but it can also come with a few unknowns, especially when it comes to inspections. Whether you’re unpacking boxes or turning in your keys, knowing what to expect before your apartment inspection can help you feel confident and prepared from start to finish.

At Walnut Capital, we want every resident to have a smooth transition with no surprises or stress. Here’s your complete guide to what apartment inspections are, what we look for, and how you can set yourself up for success before your move-in or move-out. This way, you’re living stress-free (the way it’s intended) and are ready for the inspection with confidence!

What Is an Apartment Inspection (and Why Do We Do Them)?

Apartment inspections are a standard part of the leasing process and serve two important purposes:

• Move-In Inspections document the condition of your new home before you move in. This ensures that any existing marks, wear, or maintenance needs are recorded so you’re not held responsible later.
• Move-Out Inspections happen after you’ve moved your belongings out and turned in your keys. They help confirm that the apartment has been cleaned, maintained, and returned in good condition.

These inspections protect both residents and the property. They’re our way of keeping homes in great shape and ensuring fairness when it comes to security deposits. We want to make sure our residents are living in the best possible home for them!

Getting Ready for Your Move-In Inspection

Before you unpack or decorate, take a few minutes to carefully inspect your apartment. This walkthrough helps you familiarize yourself with your new space and document its condition for future reference. Here’s what to do during your move-in:

• Take photos or videos of each room before moving in furniture. This is helpful if you need to reference pre-existing wear later.
• Test everything. Turn on lights, faucets, appliances, and check locks, windows, and outlets.
• Check for cleanliness and functionality. Your apartment should be move-in ready, but if you notice anything that needs attention, note it.

Keeping thorough documentation helps ensure your move-out process is easy and transparent down the road.

Preparing for Your Move-Out Inspection

When it’s time to move on, your goal should be to return the apartment as close as possible to how it looked on day one (aside from normal wear and tear). That way, our next tenant can experience the same great condition you experienced from your room!

We provide a Move-Out Cleaning Checklist to help you know exactly what to focus on. Following it closely helps ensure you receive the maximum refund from your security deposit and avoids unnecessary cleaning or repair charges.

Here’s a breakdown of what Walnut Capital looks for during move-out inspections, based on our standard checklist:

General Cleaning

• Remove all personal items, furniture, and trash from the apartment and any storage areas. Leftover items may incur a $150 per-room removal fee.
• Sweep, vacuum, and mop every floor ($30 per room if not completed).
• Wipe down walls and baseboards ($25 and $10 per room, respectively).
• Eliminate strong odors to avoid ozone treatment charges ($250).

Kitchen

• Clean kitchen floors ($75), countertops ($25), and sink/disposal ($25).
• Empty and scrub the refrigerator ($150 if not cleared, $75 if not cleaned).
• Clean the oven and burners ($100) and microwave ($25).
• Wipe down cabinets inside and out ($100) and dishwasher interior ($30).

Bathrooms

• Clean floors ($50 per room), sink and mirror ($15 each), and vanity surfaces ($50).
• Thoroughly scrub the toilet ($50) and bathtub ($100).

Laundry Area

• Clean the washer and dryer, including lint traps ($75 if not completed).

Repairs and Maintenance

• Patch nail holes ($6 per hole) and repair or replace any damaged blinds or fixtures (cost to replace).
• Apartments with pet-related issues may require flea treatment (actual extermination cost).
• If the apartment needs painting due to damage or color changes, that cost will be applied at actual pricing.

These charges only apply if items are left undone or damaged. By taking the time to complete these tasks, you can expect a smooth move-out inspection and the best possible refund. Make sure to refer to the information you received during move-in for a more accurate checklist.

Your Move-Out Prep Timeline

Moving can feel overwhelming, but breaking it into smaller steps makes all the difference. Here’s a suggested timeline to help you stay organized.

90 Days Before Move-Out

• Submit your Notice to Vacate through the Rent Cafe portal to give the leasing team ample time to prepare for your departure.

Two Weeks Before Move-Out

• Schedule your professional cleaning or set aside time to clean yourself.
• Confirm your forwarding address for deposit refunds.
• Review your lease terms for any move-out requirements or utility cut-off dates.
• Transfer your electricity back to the property’s name (make sure it’s in your name until the day it’s done!)
• Familiarize yourself with the loading dock rules (if applicable)
• Arrange for a plan for bulk items (couch, beds, etc.)

One Week Before

• Begin deep cleaning high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
• Patch small nail holes and clean baseboards.
• Declutter closets, cabinets, and storage spaces.
• Make sure all utilities and rent payments are made

A Few Days Before

• Do a mock inspection using the checklist.
• Take photos or videos after cleaning.
• Confirm your official inspection time with the leasing team.

Move-Out Day

• Double-check that every room is empty and clean.
• Wipe down surfaces one last time.
• Return keys, fobs, parking permits, and garage remotes.
• Join your leasing team for a walkthrough if possible—it’s the best time to discuss any final questions.

After the Inspection

Once your move-out inspection is complete, your property manager will finalize your deposit accounting. If you’re due a refund, Walnut Capital offers Rapid Refund, a secure and convenient option for receiving your funds quickly through a one-time link.

If deductions are needed, you’ll receive an itemized summary outlining any cleaning or repair charges based on the checklist standards. Our goal is full transparency—so you’ll always know exactly what’s included and why.

Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Even the cleanest residents can miss a few details. Here are some of the most common oversights that lead to move-out deductions:

• Forgetting to clean ovens, burners, or refrigerators
• Leaving trash or furniture behind
• Not patching nail holes
• Skipping the washer/dryer lint traps
• Ignoring pet odors or hair

A quick walk-through before your inspection can easily catch these small but costly mistakes.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for an apartment inspection might sound intimidating, but with the right checklist and a little planning, it’s actually simple. From documenting your move-in condition to giving your space a final clean before you move out, these steps ensure a smooth transition—whether you’re settling into a new Walnut Capital home or saying goodbye to one.

Remember: we’re here to help. If you ever have questions about inspection procedures, cleaning expectations, or deposit returns, your leasing team is always happy to walk you through the details.

Because at Walnut Capital, we believe that moving shouldn’t be stressful - it should be exciting! And when you’re prepared, it always is.