Minnesota Move-In Inspection Checklist for Renters

Before signing a lease in Minnesota, it's important to conduct a thorough inspection of the rental unit. This protects both renters and landlords, helps avoid disputes, and ensures that everyone agrees on the condition of the property. Understanding your rights, the required Minnesota inspection forms, and state laws will help you move in with confidence.

Why Move-In Inspections Matter in Minnesota

Move-in inspections document the condition of your rental before you take possession. This record can protect you later, especially when discussing your security deposit at move-out under Minnesota law. In some cases, landlords are required to provide disclosures or inspection forms. Always use state-recommended forms and keep copies for your records.

What to Inspect Before Signing a Lease

Here's a checklist to help renters in Minnesota thoroughly inspect a rental property before signing the lease agreement:

• Doors & Locks: Check that all doors lock and unlock properly.
• Windows: Test for smooth opening/closing, intact screens, and functioning locks.
• Walls & Ceilings: Look for water damage, cracks, holes, or mold.
• Floors: Check for stains, damage, or loose tiles/carpeting.
• Lighting & Electrical: Make sure all lights, switches, and outlets function. Report exposed wiring or missing fixtures.
• Plumbing: Run faucets, flush toilets, and check for leaks under sinks.
• Heating & Air Conditioning: Test to ensure the system works properly.
• Appliances: Go through each appliance and verify operation (stove, refrigerator, microwave, etc.).
• Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Minnesota law requires working detectors in all rental units.
• Pest Control: Look for signs of insects or rodents.
• General Cleanliness: The home should be clean and free of trash.

Required Disclosures and Forms in Minnesota

Minnesota law requires landlords to disclose certain information to renters before move-in. This includes:

• Outstanding Inspection Orders: Landlords must let new tenants know if the property has unremedied inspection orders (Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.195). For example, if the local housing inspector ordered repairs and the landlord hasn't fixed them yet, the renter must be informed in writing.
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure: If the property was built before 1978, federal law requires this disclosure and providing renters with the EPA's "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home" pamphlet. Learn more and access the required EPA form.
• Move-In/Move-Out Checklist: While not mandated statewide, many Minnesota landlords use a move-in/move-out checklist to document the unit's condition (see below).

Official Forms for Minnesota Renters

• Move-In/Move-Out Checklist
  Form Name: "Minnesota Move-In/Move-Out Checklist"
  How it's used: Both renter and landlord walk through the unit before move-in, noting the condition of walls, appliances, floors, etc. Both parties sign the checklist, and each keeps a copy. At move-out, the same checklist is used to compare conditions.
  Download a sample checklist from the Minnesota Attorney General (see pages 47-49)
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form
  Form Name: "Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint and/or Lead-Based Paint Hazards"
  How it's used: Required for housing built before 1978. The landlord and renter both sign after reviewing the disclosure.
  Get the official form and instructions from the EPA

Trouble with Move-In Inspections or Disclosures?

If your landlord fails to provide required disclosures or forms, or if you notice major safety hazards (such as broken locks, absent smoke detectors, or unaddressed inspection orders), you have rights under Minnesota law. For unresolved issues, you may:

• Communicate concerns in writing to your landlord for documentation
• Contact your local city housing inspector
• File a complaint or take further action through the relevant tribunal

The Minnesota Housing Court is the official tribunal handling residential tenancy disputes, including security deposit, repair, and inspection issues.

All renter-landlord relations are governed by Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant, which outlines your rights and your landlord’s obligations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Minnesota Move-In Inspections

1. Do Minnesota landlords have to provide a move-in checklist?
   State law doesn't require a checklist, but it's strongly recommended. Many landlords use one, and it’s beneficial for renters to request or create their own.
2. What if my landlord won’t disclose existing inspection orders?
   Landlords must notify new tenants in writing if the unit has uncorrected local housing inspection orders. If not, report the issue to your local housing authority or city inspector.
3. Who keeps copies of the move-in checklist?
   Both you and your landlord should keep signed copies. These documents will protect both parties during and after the lease.
4. Are photos necessary during my move-in inspection?
   Photos support written notes and provide powerful evidence if there is a dispute over your security deposit later.
5. What can I do if I move in and discover unsafe conditions?
   Report urgent repair or safety issues (missing smoke detectors, leaks, hazards) to your landlord in writing and, if unresolved quickly, contact your local inspector or file a case with Minnesota Housing Court.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Handbook: Comprehensive resource on Minnesota rental laws and forms.
• Minnesota Housing Court: For filing disputes, repair requests, or deposit issues.
• Full text of Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) - Minnesota Offices

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1. Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant
2. Minnesota Statutes Section 504B.195 – Disclosure of Inspection Orders
3. EPA – Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Requirements
4. Minnesota Housing Court
5. Minnesota Attorney General Landlord-Tenant Handbook

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