The pre-inspection: what it is and how to use it.

A pre-inspection — sometimes called an initial walk-through — usually happens 2 to 4 weeks before your lease ends. It gives you time to fix or clean things you didn't realize would be charged.

What they're typically checking:

• Carpets and flooring — stains, wear, damage
• Walls — scuffs, holes, paint problems
• Appliances — working order and cleanliness
• Fixtures — lighting, faucets, windows, doors
• Overall cleanliness
• Provided items — keys, fobs, decals, mailbox

You'll typically get notice of the date and time in writing. Some states (like California) require the landlord to offer one.

1. Be proactive. Review your Move-In Condition Report, look around for anything you may have overlooked, and clean or repair early.
2. Document current condition. Take photos of clean spaces and any damage you plan to fix — before/after evidence.
3. Raise tickets early. If something is broken (plumbing, appliances), file the service request before the pre-inspection so it's on record.
4. Be present if allowed. You'll get real-time feedback on what's expected.
5. Log every finding. Then decide how to respond — you don't have to auto-file a maintenance request. See below.

Findings aren't verdicts. For each one, the Pre-Inspection Prep experience lets you pick:

• I'll fix this myself. Small nail holes, drip pans, spot cleaning — often the fastest and cheapest path.
• Submit a maintenance request. When it's the landlord's responsibility or requires trades.
• Disagree — document why. If you don't think the item is your responsibility, note your reasoning and evidence now, in calm, professional language.
• Come back to this later. Some things need thought. That's fine.

Educate first, let the renter decide.