Pennsylvania Move-In Checklist: Essential Inspections for Renters

Moving into a new rental in Pennsylvania is an exciting step, but it also comes with important responsibilities. Before you sign your lease, taking a thorough look at the property can help prevent future disputes, ensure your comfort, and secure your deposit. Pennsylvania law grants you key rights as a renter—understanding what to inspect protects both you and your landlord.

Why a Move-In Checklist Matters in Pennsylvania

A move-in checklist is not required by Pennsylvania law, but it’s highly recommended and sometimes provided by responsible landlords. This document records the condition of the rental unit at the start of your lease—and can be critical for resolving security deposit claims when you move out.

What Should You Inspect Before Signing?

Be as detailed as possible when inspecting your new home. Bring a pen, paper, and your phone or camera to document conditions with notes and photos. Here’s what to check:

• General Cleanliness: Is the unit clean and free of trash or pests?
• Doors and Windows: Do all open and close properly? Are locks and latches secure?
• Walls and Ceilings: Look for holes, cracks, mold, or water stains.
• Floors and Carpets: Check for damage, burns, or stains, especially in high-traffic areas.
• Lights and Electrical Sockets: Test each switch and outlet; note missing light bulbs or covers.
• Heating and Cooling: Ensure they operate safely and effectively.
• Kitchen Appliances: Test oven, stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher (if available).
• Plumbing: Run each faucet, flush toilets, check under sinks for leaks, and inspect water heaters for rust or moisture.
• Safety Equipment: Check for working smoke detectors and, where required, carbon monoxide detectors.
• Exterior and Common Areas: Check outside stairs, walkways, mailboxes, and shared spaces for safety and maintenance.

Pennsylvania’s Required Disclosures and Forms

Under Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act ^[1], landlords must meet minimum safety and habitability standards. While Pennsylvania law does not require a standardized move-in checklist, you should ask your landlord if they use one—and request a copy for joint completion and signing. If a dispute over a security deposit arises, documentation is crucial.

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (Form EPA-747-K-99-001)

• When is it used? For any home built before 1978, landlords must provide a Lead-Based Paint Disclosure form to renters.
• Why? This protects you from hidden lead hazards and is required by federal law.
• How to use it? Review and sign before you move in. If you have questions, ask the landlord for the "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home" pamphlet (EPA brochure).

Security Deposit Requirements

• Landlords are legally allowed to collect a security deposit—but must follow the rules under Pennsylvania law, found in The Landlord and Tenant Act (Section 250.511a).
• The landlord must provide you with a written list of damages if part of your deposit is withheld at move-out. Photos and your completed move-in checklist can help ensure you aren’t charged for pre-existing issues.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes in Pennsylvania?

The Magisterial District Court handles most landlord-tenant disputes in Pennsylvania, including those about move-in conditions, habitability, or security deposits. You can learn more about filing a claim at the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System – Landlord Tenant Cases page.

Action Steps: How to Complete Your Move-In Inspection

Here’s a quick summary to guide you through a Pennsylvania move-in inspection:

• Request a move-in checklist from your landlord, or use your own template.
• Walk through the apartment—ideally with your landlord or property manager present.
• Document any pre-existing damage or issues with detailed notes and photos.
• Sign and date the checklist; ask your landlord to do the same.
• Retain copies for both parties.
• Ask for and review any required disclosures before signing your lease.

FAQ: Pennsylvania Move-In Inspections & Disclosures

1. Do Pennsylvania landlords have to provide a move-in checklist?
   Pennsylvania does not require landlords to provide a move-in checklist, but renters have the right to create and complete one on their own. It is highly recommended to protect your security deposit and document the unit's condition.
2. What if my landlord refuses to walk through the property with me?
   You can still conduct your own inspection, take notes and photos, and email or mail a copy of your checklist to the landlord for your records.
3. Are landlords required to provide information on lead paint?
   Yes, for homes built before 1978, federal law requires landlords to provide a lead-based paint disclosure and safety pamphlet.
4. Which tribunal do I contact for rental disputes in Pennsylvania?
   The Magisterial District Courts handle landlord-tenant disputes such as deposit disagreements. You can find your local court on the Pennsylvania Courts website.
5. What legislation protects renters' rights during move-in in Pennsylvania?
   The Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951 protects your rights, including deposit handling and habitability standards (full text here).

Key Takeaways for Pennsylvania Renters

• Always perform a detailed inspection before you sign any lease.
• Document each room and major system—notes and photos can protect your deposit.
• Request required disclosures, especially for older homes or when a security deposit is involved.

Careful preparation helps ensure a smooth start in your new Pennsylvania rental.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General: Landlord and Tenant Rights
• Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency – Renter Rights and Protections
• Pennsylvania Courts – Information for Renters and Landlords
• Pennsylvania Health Law Project: Support for renters experiencing health concerns due to housing conditions

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1. The Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951 (68 P.S. § 250.101 et seq.)
2. EPA – Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Rule
3. Pennsylvania Magisterial District Courts
4. Pennsylvania Courts: Landlord Tenant Cases

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