Final Walk-Through Checklist for North Dakota Renters

As a renter in North Dakota, performing a final walk-through before moving out is a crucial step in protecting your security deposit and avoiding disputes with your landlord. It allows you to review the condition of the rental, document any needed repairs, and ensure you’ve met your responsibilities under North Dakota law.

Why a Final Walk-Through Matters

A final walk-through is your opportunity to assess the rental unit's condition alongside your landlord or property manager. In North Dakota, this helps verify if the property has normal wear and tear or damage that might result in deductions from your security deposit.

What North Dakota Law Says

Your rights and responsibilities as a renter are guided by the North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16, which covers leases, move-out procedures, and security deposits.^[1] The official body handling rental disputes is the North Dakota Attorney General's Office – Landlord & Tenant Rights.^[2]

Preparing for Your Final Walk-Through

Before scheduling your walk-through, notify your landlord of your intended move-out date as required by your lease. Ask if they have an official checklist or prefer to use a standard form.

Key Areas to Check

• Walls, ceilings, and paint for holes, scuffs, or stains
• Floors and carpets for stains, burns, or excessive wear
• Windows, screens, and locks (ensure all function and are undamaged)
• Doors and doorknobs (check for proper operation)
• Appliances (ensure clean and in working order: stove, refrigerator, etc.)
• Plumbing (faucets, toilets, showers free of leaks and mold)
• Light fixtures and electrical outlets
• Closets, cupboards, and drawers (clean and empty)
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (present and tested)

Take clear, time-stamped photos or videos of every room—this can protect you if a dispute arises later.

Using the North Dakota Final Inspection Checklist

While North Dakota does not require a specific government-issued final walk-through form, many landlords use a "Move-Out/Move-In Condition Checklist.” This form is used at move-in and again at move-out to compare property condition.

• Name: Move-In/Move-Out Checklist (no official form number)
• When to Use: Complete at move-in and repeat at move-out with your landlord to document changes
• How to Use: Bring the completed move-in checklist to your final walk-through. Both you and your landlord should review each area, note any new or unrepaired damage, and sign the final version.
• Example: If you recorded a stain in the bedroom carpet at move-in, you should not be charged for it again at move-out unless it has worsened.
• Where to Find: Sample printable checklists are provided on the North Dakota Attorney General's Official Landlord-Tenant Checklists page.^[3]

After the Walk-Through: What Happens Next?

At the end of your lease, your landlord has up to 30 days to return your security deposit or provide a written explanation of any deductions per North Dakota law.^[1]

• If all is satisfactory, you should receive your deposit back in full
• If there are deductions, your landlord must provide an itemized list by mail

If you feel a deduction is unfair, you can file a complaint with the North Dakota Attorney General’s Office.

FAQs: Final Walk-Throughs in North Dakota

1. Do I have the right to be present during the final walk-through?
   Yes, you have the right to request to be present and complete the condition checklist with your landlord.
2. What if my landlord refuses a final walk-through?
   If your landlord will not schedule or attend a walk-through, document the condition yourself with photos and a completed checklist. This protects you if there is a dispute over damages or your security deposit.
3. How soon will I get my security deposit back?
   In North Dakota, your landlord must return your deposit or provide a written, itemized explanation of deductions within 30 days of your lease ending.
4. Can I dispute security deposit deductions?
   Yes. If you disagree, you may submit a complaint to the North Dakota Attorney General's Office or pursue the matter in a small claims court.
5. Is there a required cleaning standard for move-out?
   There is no specific regulation, but you must return the unit in as clean and good a condition as it was at move-in, except for reasonable wear and tear.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for North Dakota Renters

• Use an official Move-In/Move-Out Checklist for your final walk-through
• Document every room with detailed photos or video
• Your landlord must provide a written list of security deposit deductions within 30 days

Preparation and documentation are your best tools for a smooth move-out process under North Dakota law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Attorney General – Landlord & Tenant Rights (rental disputes, forms, and legal guides)
• ND Department of Human Services – Housing Assistance (housing resources and support services)
• Landlord/Tenant Move-In and Move-Out Checklists (official checklists for renters)
• For small claims disputes: North Dakota Courts – Small Claims Legal Self Help

---

1. North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16 – Landlord and Tenant Legislation
2. North Dakota Attorney General’s Office – Landlord & Tenant Rights (Official Tribunal)
3. Official Landlord/Tenant Move-In & Move-Out Checklists PDF

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations