Free Illinois Move-In / Move-Out Checklist
A detailed property condition checklist for documenting the state of the rental at move-in and move-out. Essential for security deposit disputes. Compliant with 765 ILCS 705 et seq..
What's Included in Your Move-In / Move-Out Checklist
8 key sections — state-compliant for Illinois
What's Included in Your Move-In / Move-Out Checklist
8 key sections — state-compliant for Illinois
Free Illinois Move-In / Move-Out Checklist
Protecting both landlords and tenants starts with a thorough property inspection. Our free Illinois move-in/move-out checklist documents the condition of every room — essential for security deposit disputes under 765 ILCS 705 et seq..
Why You Need a Move-In/Move-Out Checklist in Illinois
- Security deposit protection — Illinois requires deposits returned within 30 days with itemized deductions
- Dispute prevention — documented conditions prevent "he said, she said" arguments
- Legal evidence — signed checklists are accepted by Illinois courts in deposit disputes
- Deposit limit: No statutory limit (Chicago: 1.5 months)
What Our Illinois Checklist Covers
- Living room, kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom conditions
- Existing damage documentation
- Appliance and fixture status
- Exterior and yard condition
- Space for photos and additional notes
How to Use This Checklist
- At move-in — Walk through the property with the tenant and rate each room
- Document everything — Note scratches, stains, broken items, and take photos
- Both parties sign — Ensures mutual agreement on property condition
- At move-out — Repeat the inspection and compare to move-in conditions
- Calculate deductions — Only deduct for damage beyond normal wear and tear
Competitors charge $15-25 for this checklist — ours is 100% free.
Frequently Asked Questions: Illinois Move-In / Move-Out Checklist
Is a move-in checklist required by law in Illinois?
While Illinois may not legally require a move-in checklist, it is strongly recommended. Without documented proof of the property's condition at move-in, landlords may have difficulty withholding any portion of the security deposit for damages.
How does this checklist protect my security deposit in Illinois?
In Illinois, landlords must return deposits within 30 days and can only deduct for damage beyond normal wear and tear. A signed move-in checklist provides documented proof of the property's condition, making it clear what damage occurred during the tenancy.
Should both landlord and tenant sign the checklist?
Yes. Both parties should sign the checklist at move-in and move-out. This creates a binding record that both parties agreed on the property's condition.