Ultimate Move-In & Move-Out Guide
Use our step-by-step move in checklist and move out checklist, documentation hacks, and deposit-deduction calculator to safeguard your money and rental history.
Use our step-by-step move in checklist and move out checklist, documentation hacks, and deposit-deduction calculator to safeguard your money and rental history.
The average Michigan security deposit now tops $1,750. Lose track of documentation and that money is on the line. A detailed move in checklist proves pre-existing scuffs and appliance quirks, while a disciplined move out checklist shows you left the unit in rentable shape. Judges love paper trails; landlords respect organized tenants; and future property managers will ask old landlords for references. In other words, solid inspection habits equal cash in your pocket, fewer disputes, and a glowing rental record.
This guide moves chronologically—from day one keys in hand to the moment you hand them back. Bookmark or print it, then share it with roommates so everyone stays accountable.
Complete this list within the first 7 days (Michigan’s statutory window to return the landlord’s blank checklist). Tick each box, add photos, and email a signed copy to the landlord—CC yourself.
Follow this 28-item list in the final week. A clean, documented exit makes it nearly impossible for a landlord to justify extra charges.
Shoot in 4K at 60 fps and enable time-stamp overlay apps such as “Timestamp Camera” for iOS/Android. Stand in each room’s far corner, pan slowly, and capture every wall, ceiling, and floor. Hold that day’s newspaper or a smartphone displaying today’s date in one frame per room for additional authenticity. Save originals to cloud storage (Google Drive, iCloud, Dropbox) and share a read-only folder link with your landlord—no excuses about file sizes clogging their inbox.
Utility estimates can swallow a deposit faster than any stain. Capture move-in and move-out readings on the same day you exchange keys.
| Utility | Analog/Digital? | Where to Look |
|---|---|---|
| Electric | Digital LCD | Exterior wall near driveway or basement panel |
| Gas | Analog dials | Side yard—follow black pipe from foundation |
| Water | Radio-read digital | Basement floor well or front lawn pit |
Email the readings with photos to the landlord and utility provider. Subject line: “Move-Out Meter Readings – [Address].” This paper trail eliminates “estimated bill” surprises.
Grease hides on cabinet tops and stove hood filters. Use a degreaser spray followed by warm soapy water. Stainless surfaces shine with white vinegar + microfiber.
Mineral deposits around faucets trigger deductions. Apply a 1:1 vinegar soak for 20 minutes, then scrub. Replace torn shower liners—$8 liner now beats $75 “cleaning fee” later.
Michigan judges often view professional carpet cleaning as “ordinary wear” after a one-year lease. Average cost is $0.25 / sq ft. Keep the receipt.
Baking soda sits overnight on carpets; activated charcoal absorbs fridge smells. Avoid strong perfumes that could signal cover-ups.
Sweep porches, remove cobwebs, and dispose of oil-absorbent pads under vehicles. Exterior neglect can snowball into claims for “curb-appeal losses.”
| Allowable Deduction | Example | Non-Allowable | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unpaid Rent | March balance $725 | Future Rent | April rent when unit re-rented |
| Damage beyond wear | Broken window pane | Normal Paint Fade | Faded walls after 3 years |
| Late Fees in Lease | $35 after day 5 | Illegal Penalties | $200 “administrative fee” |
| Unpaid Utilities | Final water bill | Cleaning for Routine Dust | $150 “basic cleaning” |
If day 31 dawns with no check or itemized list, send a certified demand letter citing double-damages under MCL 554.613.
Estimate your likely refund—no spreadsheets required. Enter honest numbers and let the algorithm apply Michigan’s common deduction rules.
Breaking a lease doesn’t have to wreck your credit. Give written notice, request a written mutual termination agreement, and return keys on the agreed date. Provide proof of utility shut-offs and surrender forms. Negotiating a payment plan through mediation often avoids a court filing. For legal defenses, read our Breaking Lease Early and Eviction Process guides.
Bottom line: A thorough move-in checklist, meticulous move-out cleaning, and rock-solid documentation keep your security deposit safe. Print this guide or pair it with our interactive checklist generator and deposit calculator for worry-free moving day.