Alaska Tenant Walk-Through Checklist: Secure Your Deposit

As your rental in Alaska comes to an end, performing a final walk-through is a smart way to protect yourself and ensure a smooth transition. A proper checklist, clear understanding of state laws, and awareness of required forms can help you document the property’s condition and safeguard your security deposit. Here’s what you need to know in plain language.

Preparing for Your Move-Out Walk-Through in Alaska

In Alaska, tenants and landlords both have rights and responsibilities during move-outs. The walk-through—sometimes called a move-out inspection—lets you review the home together, note damages or cleaning needs, and clarify what comes next regarding your security deposit.

Your walk-through should be scheduled:

• At a reasonable time, after giving your landlord at least 24 hours' notice
• Close to or on the date you return the keys

What to Bring With You

• A copy of your original move-in inspection checklist
• Your lease agreement
• Any communication you've had about repairs or issues
• Your phone or camera for photos
• Pen and paper to take notes

Alaska Move-Out Checklist: What to Inspect

Go room by room, checking each item below. Compare current conditions to your move-in inspection. Note normal wear and tear, which isn’t the tenant’s responsibility, versus actual damage.

• Floors and carpets: stains, burns, deep scratches
• Walls and ceilings: holes, major marks, water damage
• Windows and doors: cracks, locks working, screens intact
• Light fixtures and outlets: all functioning, not missing or broken
• Appliances: refrigerator, stove, etc. clean and in same state as move-in
• Bathroom: mold or mildew, running water, working toilet, clean grout
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: present and working
• Exterior and yard (if applicable): trash/tidy, lawn mowed, no pet damage
• All keys and access cards ready to return

Required Forms and Official Steps

Alaska does not have a standard statewide inspection form, but the Move-In/Move-Out Condition Checklist (Form ADM-105) from the Alaska Court System is widely accepted.

• Form Name: Move-In/Move-Out Condition Checklist (Form ADM-105)
• When to Use: During both move-in and move-out walkthroughs, to document the unit’s condition. Helps resolve deposit disputes.
• How to Use: Fill out with your landlord present (if possible), noting any defects, damage, or cleaning issues. Sign and date the form together. Keep a personal copy. Download from the Alaska Court System.

For security deposit refunds or disputes:

• Form Name: Complaint (For Return of Personal Property or Money Owed) (Form CIV-500)
• When to Use: If your landlord withholds your security deposit unlawfully after move-out.
• How to Use: File this form with your local district court. View and download from Alaska Courts.

Key Alaska Laws for Your Protection

The main legislation covering tenants and move-out procedures is the Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord & Tenant Act (AS 34.03). Under state law¹:

• Your landlord must return your security deposit (minus allowed deductions) within 14 days if there are no damages, or 30 days if there are deductions or unpaid charges.
• You have the right to receive a written list of any charges against the deposit.

What Happens After the Walk-Through?

After the inspection:

• Return all keys and access devices
• Request a signed copy of the final inspection checklist
• Provide your forwarding address in writing
• Wait for your landlord’s deposit refund and itemized deductions letter, if any

If you don’t receive your deposit back in the required time frame, contact the Alaska Court System’s self-help resources or file a complaint using the CIV-500 form above.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Am I required to be present for the walk-through in Alaska?
   It’s not legally required, but being present lets you clarify issues, answer questions, and protect your interests.
2. What if my landlord finds damages I disagree with?
   Dispute them in writing and submit your own documentation (photos, videos, move-in checklist). If needed, file a complaint with the Alaska courts using Form CIV-500.
3. How soon do I get my security deposit back?
   Alaska law requires your landlord to return your deposit within 14 days of move-out (if there are no deductions) or within 30 days if there are deductions.
4. Can my landlord deduct for normal wear and tear?
   No. Only damage beyond ordinary wear and tear or unpaid rent/fees can be withheld from your deposit.
5. Where can I get help if there’s a dispute?
   Resources include the Alaska Court System, Alaska Legal Services, and local rental advocacy services (see below).

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

• Always document the unit’s condition at move-out using a checklist and photos
• Use Alaska’s official forms for inspections and disputes
• Know your rights regarding deposit returns—timelines matter

With preparation and good records, Alaskan renters can move out confidently and secure their deposit.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Alaska Court System: Landlord/Tenant Information (Handles official disputes and deposit claims)
• Alaska Legal Services Corporation (Free legal help for eligible tenants)
• Alaska Department of Health: Housing Resources
• Refer to the Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord & Tenant Act for full legal details

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1. Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord & Tenant Act (AS 34.03)

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