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Updated 2026
When you’re buying or renting a home, you’ll have one last chance to determine that the property is in the condition it should be: the final walk-through. In the excitement of getting to move-in day, don’t skip this important step!
What Is a Final Walk-Through?
Although the objectives may differ slightly, the final walk-through for the buyer or renter will cover many of the same areas.
For homebuyers, the final walk-through is one of the last steps to buying a house. It’s your last opportunity before closing to confirm that repairs agreed upon in the sales agreement have been completed and that nothing in the property has been altered or deteriorated since you last saw it.
For renters, in addition to the essential terms landlords should include in a lease, you will assume responsibility for the property's condition upon vacating. This is one of the last steps in renting a house.
Any existing damage or condition that falls below the expected move-in standard should be documented to ensure that you’re not charged for repairs or replacement when you terminate the lease.
This includes any issues such as broken or malfunctioning appliances, windows, or other items; stains on carpets or walls; or any other damage that existed before your move-in date.
When Does the Final Walk-Through Happen?
For homebuyers, the final walk-through usually takes place shortly before closing, often within the final 24 to 48 hours. Whenever possible, it should occur after the seller has moved out and removed their belongings. An empty home makes it easier to spot damage, missing fixtures, incomplete repairs, or areas that were hidden by furniture and boxes during earlier visits.
Renters may complete their walk-through before receiving the keys, on move-in day, or within a specific number of days after moving in. Check the lease for the deadline and instructions for returning the completed checklist. Submit it on time, and keep a dated copy along with your photos and videos for your records.
Who Attends the Walk-Through?
Homebuyers
When buying a home, it’s typically the buyer and their real estate agent who conduct the final walk-through. An agent will have a good idea of what to look for and will guide the homebuyer through any issues or repairs that need to be completed.
Usually, the home walk-through happens after the seller has moved out. However, in cases where the seller hasn’t completed this process, the home seller and their agent may also be present.
Renters
As a renter, you may be required to conduct a walk-through with the property manager or landlord, or you might be given a checklist to complete within a certain number of days after moving in.
What Should You Bring to a Walk-Through?
Having the right information and a few basic tools on hand can help you conduct a more complete walk-through. Consider bringing:
- A copy of the sales agreement, repair addendum, or lease
- The home inspection report, if applicable
- A phone or camera for photos and videos
- A flashlight (or your phone's light) for checking closets, cabinets, attics, and dimly lit areas
- A phone charger or small plug-in device to test electrical outlets
- A notepad, pen, or digital checklist
- Contact information for the real estate agent, landlord, or property manager
Renters should photograph each room from several angles and take close-up photos of stains, scratches, holes, broken fixtures, or other existing damage. Save the photos and videos in a location you can access when you move out rather than relying only on files stored on your phone.
What Should Renters and Homebuyers Look for During a Walk-Through?
For Homebuyers
Realize, as a buyer, that this is not another home inspection, as this should have already happened. It’s simply your opportunity to ensure that all updates and repairs you agreed upon with the seller have been completed, that nothing is missing, and that the seller has not left items and belongings behind.
Typically, a seller should leave the property in a “broom-swept” condition, meaning that clutter and trash have been removed, counters and surfaces have been wiped down, and floors and carpets have been swept or vacuumed.
During a final home walk-through, check the appliances, plumbing, electrical fixtures, windows, doors, flooring, walls, heating and cooling systems, exterior areas, and any repairs included in the sales agreement.
What’s the difference between a home inspection and final walk-through?
A home inspection is a detailed evaluation of the property’s condition and major systems, usually completed earlier in the steps to buying a house. A final walk-through takes place shortly before closing and isn’t intended to replace the inspection or uncover every possible defect.
For Renters
Your landlord or property manager will likely present you with a walk-through checklist as one of the last renting steps. However, there are some general items to be aware of, then use the checklist below for more details.
Flooring and baseboards: Carefully examine the condition of the flooring and carpet. Note any stains, pulls, or scratches, as well as the condition of the baseboards.
Walls and paint: Note any scratches or dents, the condition of the walls, if paint is fresh, and any stains.
Appliances and ceiling fans: Ensure that the provided appliances are in working order. If they aren’t, immediately place a work order for repair or replacement. Note if ceiling fans are securely mounted, in good order, and clean.
Windows, blinds, and doors: Make sure that windows and doors open and close smoothly. Report any torn screens and request replacement as needed. If blinds are provided, check that they are clean and report any broken or bent blinds.
Plumbing, toilets, and tubs: Check for leaks, ensure faucets are in good working order, and verify that tubs and toilets are caulked. Report any water leaks or a toilet that constantly runs.
Exterior and landscaping: Note the condition of the grass, shrubbery, and trees. Is the property overgrown or in need of an initial mow? If so, document and report it.
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What if There's a Problem with the Walk-Through?
For Homebuyers
Depending on the severity of the issue, there are several options your real estate agent will probably recommend:
- All repairs should be made by the seller before closing.
- A portion of the seller’s proceeds may be deposited into an escrow account to cover repairs after closing.
- Closing may be delayed until the repairs are completed.
- For extreme issues, the buyer may need to consider walking away from the sale or taking legal action.
Document any concerns in writing rather than relying only on verbal communication. Take photos that show both the problem and enough of the surrounding room to establish its location. Your real estate agent can compare the issue with the sales agreement, inspection response, repair addendum, and any receipts or documentation provided by the seller before discussing the available options.
For Renters
Beyond normal wear and tear, note any necessary repairs or broken items. It’s essential to document this so that repairs can be made and you receive your security deposit back upon moving out. It’s wise to document any damage you notice on moving in with photos or videos.
Submit the completed checklist and supporting photos according to the instructions in your lease, and ask the landlord or property manager to acknowledge that they received them. Be clear about the difference between existing cosmetic damage that simply needs to be recorded and maintenance concerns that require an immediate work order, such as an active leak, broken lock, malfunctioning appliance, or electrical problem. Keep copies of all submitted documentation and repair requests.
Home Buyer and Renter Walk-Through Checklist
Specifically for the Homebuyer Walk-Through:
Were the requested repairs made to the property? Are all of the conveyances at the property?
- Appliances
- Light fixtures
- Play structures
- Remote controls for home fixtures
- Garage door openers
- Blinds/draperies
- Other
For Home Buyer and Renter Walk-Through:
Kitchen
- Turn on appliances and test for function
- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator
- Microwave
- Stove
- Garbage disposal
- Sink
- Hot and cold water
- Ceiling fan
- Counter condition
- Floor condition
- Cabinetry condition
- Check beneath the sink and around appliances for leaks or water damage
- Test electrical outlets and light switches
Living Rooms
- Rug/flooring
- Walls/nail holes
- Light fixtures
- Windows (open, close, and lock)
- Doors/door frames
- Electrical outlets and switches
- Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
- Signs of moisture, musty odors, or visible mold
Bedrooms
- Rug/flooring
- Walls/nail holes
- Light fixtures
- Windows (open, close, and lock)
- Doors/door frames
- Closet fixtures
- Ceiling fans
- Electrical outlets and switches
- Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
- Closets empty and free of moisture or damage
Bathrooms
- Check fixtures for function
- Flooring
- Tub
- Shower
- Sink
- Toilet
- Windows (open, close, and lock)
- Water damage (check inside cabinets and around fixtures)
- Light fixtures
- Hot and cold water
- Water pressure and drainage
- Exhaust fan
- Signs of mildew, mold, or leaks
- Secure towel racks and toilet paper holders
Basement/Rec Area
- Rug/flooring
- Walls/nail holes
- Light fixtures
- Windows (open, close, and lock)
- Doors/door frames
- Water damage
- Ceiling fans
- Musty odors, moisture, or visible mold
- Sump pump, if applicable
- Floor drains
- Electrical outlets and switches
General Interior
- Banisters and stair railings
- Furnace
- HVAC
- Water heater
- Water softener
- Fireplaces
- Storage areas and closets empty and dry
- Heating and air conditioning systems turn on
- Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors function
- Electrical outlets and switches
- Exterior doors close and lock securely
- No visible leaks beneath sinks or near appliances
- No signs of moisture, musty odors, or visible mold
- All keys, mailbox keys, access cards, and gate remotes provided
- Utility meter readings documented, when appropriate
- Security system information and codes provided, if applicable
- Attic and crawl space appear dry and free of belongings, when accessible
General Exterior
- Doorbell
- Alarm system
- Outside light fixtures
- Landscaping as expected
- Trees, shrubs, and branches that could pose a safety concern
- Doors/door frames
- Garage door function and remotes
- Deck/patio condition
- Gutters and roof look intact and any agreed-upon repairs are complete
- Signs of pests: droppings, decayed wood from termites
- Fences and gates open, close, and latch properly
- Outdoor faucets function and do not leak
- Trash, personal belongings, and construction debris have been removed
- Irrigation system condition, if applicable
- Mailbox condition and keys provided
- Visible siding, driveway, walkway, or foundation damage
- Exterior electrical outlets
- Pool, hot tub, or other outdoor equipment condition, if included
- House numbers visible
- No signs of standing water or drainage problems
Don't Skip the Walk-Through!
Whether you’re buying a home or renting a house, the final walk-through is an important opportunity to protect yourself before closing or moving in. Take your time, test the property’s basic features, document any problems, and follow up in writing.
Use the list above to stay organized, and download our free move-in/move-out checklist below to record the property’s condition.
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