Oregon Apartment Move-In Checklist: Inspections & Disclosures

Moving into a new apartment or rental home in Oregon is exciting, but it's important to protect yourself before you sign a lease. Performing a thorough move-in inspection can help you safeguard your security deposit and ensure issues are addressed up front. Oregon state law outlines what landlords and tenants should check and disclose before you move in.

Why a Move-In Inspection Matters for Oregon Renters

Inspecting your rental before signing the lease can prevent disputes later over damages or missing repairs. Oregon law requires landlords to disclose important property conditions and, in many cases, offer a written Condition Report (often called a move-in checklist).

Key Areas to Inspect Before Moving In

Before committing to a rental, carefully check the following areas. Document any damage or wear—photos or videos are highly recommended.

• Walls, ceilings, and floors for stains, holes, or scratches
• Doors and locks (entry, patio, interior) function properly
• Windows: intact glass, screens, and locks
• Plumbing: sinks, toilets, showers/tubs for leaks or damage
• Heating and appliances: test everything that’s included
• Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms (Oregon requires both)
• Curtains, blinds, and lighting fixtures
• Mold, mildew, or water damage signs
• Evidence of pests (insects, rodents, etc.)
• Outdoor areas (balcony, yard, parking, storage)

Official Forms: Oregon Rental Condition Report

Landlords in Oregon are not required by state law to provide a specific move-in checklist form, but many do. Both sides benefit from a written Condition Report—a written record of the property’s state at move-in. While there’s no statewide official document, you and your landlord can use the Oregon Rental Housing Association’s sample form or create your own.

• Sample Form: Oregon Rental Condition Report
  (No official state number)
  Oregon Rental Condition Report (Sample, ORHA PDF)
  When and how to use: Complete this alongside your landlord before moving in. Both parties should sign and retain copies. This protects you if you contest security deposit charges when moving out.

If you discover repairs are needed, inform your landlord in writing. Landlords must maintain rentals that meet Oregon’s habitability standards.

Required Disclosures for Oregon Rentals

Before move-in, Oregon landlords must provide written disclosures on several issues:

• Name and address of the property manager or owner
• Lead-based paint disclosure (if the building was built before 1978)
• Smoke alarm/carbon monoxide alarm location and test confirmation
• Flood plain notice, if applicable

Landlords failing to provide the required disclosures are in violation of the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Always request these before you sign or pay a deposit.^[1]

What Happens After the Move-In Inspection?

Once you’ve completed your inspection, both you and the landlord should sign and keep a copy of the checklist. If either party disagrees about damage later, this document can help resolve the issue fairly. If maintenance is required, submit your requests in writing as soon as possible.

Key takeaway: The move-in checklist is your best protection against unfair security deposit deductions in Oregon.

Who Handles Disputes? Oregon’s Tribunal for Renting

If you cannot resolve issues with your landlord, you may seek assistance from the local County Circuit Court’s Landlord-Tenant division, part of the Oregon Judicial Department. Find your local court using the Oregon State Courts directory.

All Oregon rental tenancies are governed by the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90).^[1]

FAQs for Oregon Renters: Move-In Inspection & Disclosures

1. What should I do if my landlord refuses to complete a move-in checklist?
   Document the rental’s condition with photos and send your own written checklist to the landlord. Keep copies of all communications.
2. Are landlords required to provide a move-in checklist by law in Oregon?
   State law does not require a specific form, but a written checklist or condition report is strongly recommended and may be required by local ordinances.
3. What happens if repairs are needed after I move in?
   Notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible. Oregon law requires landlords to make timely repairs for habitability issues.
4. Is my landlord required to disclose mold or pest problems?
   Oregon law requires landlords to provide a habitable property, but there is no specific statutory disclosure. Always inspect for visible signs and document your findings.
5. Where can I get help if my landlord ignores my inspection notes?
   If issues persist, you can seek help from your local County Circuit Court’s Landlord-Tenant division or the Oregon Department of Justice’s Consumer Protection.

Key Takeaways for Oregon Renters

• Always inspect and document your rental before moving in and signing any lease.
• Request and keep copies of all move-in checklists and disclosures—use the forms available.
• Oregon law protects your right to a safe and habitable home—know where to seek help if issues arise.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90)
• Find Your County Circuit Court Landlord-Tenant Division (Official Tribunal for Disputes)
• Oregon Housing and Community Services — Renters' Resources
• Oregon Department of Justice: Renter Rights and Complaints

---

1. Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90)

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