Virginia Move-In Checklist: Key Inspections Before You Sign

Moving into a new rental in Virginia is an exciting step, but it’s crucial to protect your security deposit and your rights. Before you sign a lease, the Commonwealth of Virginia provides renters important legal protections and forms that help ensure your home is safe, habitable, and in good condition. This guide explains how to use a move-in checklist, key disclosures, and where to get help if issues arise, so you can start your tenancy with confidence.

Why a Move-In Inspection Matters

Documenting the condition of your unit protects you from being wrongly charged for damage you didn’t cause. Virginia law gives tenants the right to an inspection and official checklist when moving in, ensuring both you and your landlord agree on the apartment’s state.

What to Inspect Before Signing the Lease

Before committing, carefully inspect the property. Here’s what to check during your move-in walkthrough:

• Doors, locks, and windows (security and function)
• Working smoke detectors (required by Virginia law)
• Heating, air conditioning, and water systems
• All appliances (stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, etc.)
• Plumbing—check for leaks and running water in sinks, toilets, and showers
• Walls, floors, and ceilings for holes, stains, or mold
• Light fixtures, outlets, and electrical safety
• Pest infestations or signs of previous pests
• Any prior damage or areas needing repair
• Presence of lead-based paint disclosure (if building was built before 1978)

Required Virginia Move-In Checklist and Forms

Virginia law requires landlords to provide a specific move-in inspection form at the beginning of tenancy:

• Move-In / Move-Out Inspection Report (Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, no form number):
  Landlords must provide a written checklist documenting the condition of the property at move-in. Tenants should fill out, sign, and return this form within five days of moving in.
  View the official Virginia sample Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Report here.
  Practical example: If you move in and find a scratch on the floor, note it on the inspection form. This protects your deposit when moving out.
• Rental Inspection Checklist:
  Some cities or counties in Virginia require additional inspection checklists. You can find local requirements on your city or county housing department website.
• Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (required for homes built before 1978):
  Landlords must give you this federal form before you sign if applicable. Get the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure form from the EPA.
  Example: If your unit is built in 1975, the landlord must give you this form to review any paint hazard information.

For more legal details, you can review the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Key Landlord Disclosures in Virginia

Virginia law requires landlords to provide certain disclosures before you sign a lease:

• Mold presence or remediation (if the landlord is aware)
• Whether any military air installation is near the property
• The identity of the property owner or manager (and how to contact them)

For full legal requirements, see Section 55.1-1206 of the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.¹

How to Complete and Use the Move-In Checklist

Once you get your inspection form, follow these steps to make sure you’re protected:

• Fill out the checklist completely, ideally with your landlord or their agent present
• Note any existing damage, stains, or missing items
• Date and sign the form
• Return a copy to your landlord within five days (keep a copy for your records)
• Take clear photos of any issues and attach them to your checklist

If the landlord fails to provide a move-in checklist, you should still document the unit yourself and send your list (and photos) to your landlord for recordkeeping.

Understanding Your Rights—Virginia Tenancy Laws and Tribunal

All tenant and landlord rights in Virginia are governed by the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. If disputes arise, matters can be handled by the Virginia General District Court, which has jurisdiction over residential tenancy claims.

FAQ: Move-In Inspections and Renters’ Rights in Virginia

1. Do I have to use the landlord’s inspection checklist?
   Yes. Virginia law requires landlords to provide a written move-in inspection form. Use their form, but feel free to add your own notes and photos for extra documentation.
2. What if my landlord doesn’t give me a checklist?
   If not provided, create your own checklist, document the condition with photos, and send it to your landlord within five days of moving in. Keep copies for your records.
3. Can I request repairs before signing the lease?
   Absolutely. You can—and should—request that any problems found during the inspection be fixed before you sign or pay your deposit.
4. What disclosures must my Virginia landlord provide at move-in?
   Required disclosures may include lead-based paint, any known mold, and the name/contact information of the owner or management. Check the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act for details.
5. Who do I contact if I can’t resolve move-in inspection issues with my landlord?
   If you reach an impasse, you may contact your local General District Court in Virginia or the state’s Department of Housing and Community Development for guidance.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Virginia Renters

• Always complete a move-in inspection and checklist—document everything
• Request and review all required disclosures before signing
• Keep copies of all paperwork, photos, and correspondences for your records

These steps will help safeguard your deposit and ensure your rental experience starts on a positive note.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Virginia

• Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development – Landlord & Tenant Resources
• Virginia General District Court (handles most tenancy disputes)
• Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (full legislation)
• Virginia Legal Aid – Housing Information and Support
• Contact your local city or county housing department for area-specific requirements

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1. Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, § 55.1-1206 – Landlord's disclosure and inspection requirements
2. Sample Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Report — Department of Housing and Community Development
3. EPA – Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Requirements
4. Virginia General District Court – Landlord Tenant

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