[look 171]

Originally Posted by Evans, Marv

I had rental property for over 25 years. Not long after starting, I developed a check in/check out form listing the items and features of the property. I also took pictures. All the items on the list had associated boxes - check in, check out, condition good, condition new, broken, needs replacement, properly/not properly cleaned, etc., comment (painted, replaced on such & such a date, etc). At the end were places for comments by me and the tenants. I took the tenant around with me and we completed the form, which I would give them a copy of signed and dated by me and them (everybody occupying the property). It stated the tenant acknowledged I had taken current picture documentation upon move in and would take appropriate pictures upon move out. It also stated the expected condition upon move out along with items required, like providing a receipt for carpet cleaning, etc. It was just move in/move out SOP and gave me & the tenant a good record and understanding of expectations. It worked really well.

Thanks for the tip. I have never thought about documenting the repairs or simple things such as carpet cleaning.