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Documenting unit condition at move-out

Deposit disputes are won or lost on documentation created the day the tenant left, not on recollection weeks later. This is a practical record-keeping guide, not legal advice — check your obligations with an attorney.

Photograph the same way every time

One wide shot per room from the doorway, then close-ups of every noted defect. A consistent order makes a set comparable to the move-in photos of the same unit.

Write the note, not just the photo

A photo shows a mark; the note says what it is, where it is and what repairing it involves. Those three facts are what make a record usable later.

Separate damage from wear

Faded paint, minor nail holes and worn carpet traffic lanes are normally wear. Holes through drywall, missing fixtures, pet damage and heavy staining are normally damage. Keep them on separate lines in the report and price them separately.

Get a quote for your property

Answer a few questions and a written scope comes back with a firm number. Nothing is scheduled until you approve it.