LeaseTrailMove-in inspection checklist (Ontario)
Not legal advice. Ontario rules change; confirm with Tribunals Ontario / the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) and a qualified professional.
A thorough move-in inspection protects both landlords and tenants. Use this Ontario-oriented checklist to document condition with photos, notes, and dates — then store everything in a LeaseTrail Evidence Pack.
Why move-in evidence matters
Years later, memories fade. Timestamped photos of walls, floors, appliances, and meters make it easier to distinguish pre-existing wear from new damage. Pair photos with a short written checklist signed or acknowledged by both sides when possible.
Room-by-room checklist
Entry, hallways, stairs
- Door locks, keys/fobs issued (count them)
- Scuffs, holes, paint condition
- Smoke/CO alarms present and tested (note date)
Kitchen
- Cabinets, counters, sink, faucet leaks
- Appliance model/serial if useful; existing chips or stains
- Flooring condition; under-sink photos
Bathrooms
- Caulking, grout, fan operation, leaks under vanity
- Toilet secure; shower/tub chips
Bedrooms & living areas
- Carpet/floor wear patterns, window operation, blinds
- Outlet/switch faceplates; closet shelving
Basement / laundry / exterior (if applicable)
- Moisture signs, dehumidifier, dryer vent
- Parking spot, mailbox, storage unit condition
How to capture useful photos
- Shoot wide shots of each room, then close-ups of defects.
- Include a scrap of paper with the date in-frame if your camera clock is unreliable.
- Photograph meter readings (hydro/gas/water) where relevant.
- Upload promptly to an Evidence Pack so timestamps and captions stay together.
Start free on LeaseTrail
Keep rent ledgers, maintenance notes, and move-in/out Evidence Packs organized in one place — with timestamps and PDF export.