Landlord Clearance Checklist: Clearing a Rental Between Tenants

Every day a rental sits uncleared is a day it is not earning. This checklist covers the practical side of clearing a rental property between tenants, whether you are a landlord with one property or an agent with many. Tick items off as you go (your ticks are saved on this device), print it, or save it as a PDF.

This covers the practical side only. The legal position on a tenant's belongings and deposits depends on the circumstances, so take advice or check with the Residential Tenancies Board where there is any doubt.

1. When You Know the Tenancy Is Ending

• Note the date the tenant is due to leave and the date the keys are due back.
• Note the date the next tenant is due to move in, or the viewing dates.
• Check the inventory or condition report from the start of the tenancy.
• Arrange a final inspection with the tenant, if possible.

2. At the Final Inspection

• Photograph every room, with the date, before anything changes.
• Note any belongings left behind, and photograph them.
• Note any damage, and compare it with the start-of-tenancy record.
• Get the keys, and note how many have been returned.
• Take meter readings.
• Take advice, or check with the Residential Tenancies Board, before disposing of anything a tenant has left behind.

3. Arranging the Clearance

• Send photos of each room and any stairs, lift or parking to a clearance company for a free quote.
• Give the date the property must be ready.
• Ask for the waste collection permit number and proof of insurance.
• Arrange keys and access with the agent, caretaker or building manager.
• If it is an apartment, ask the management company about lift booking and loading rules.
• Agree what happens to anything of value.

4. After the Clearance

• Check each room has been left swept and tidy.
• Check any attic, shed, garage or storage area attached to the property.
• Arrange any cleaning, repairs, painting or a compliance inspection that comes next.
• Arrange photographs for the new listing.
• Keep the quote and invoice for your records.

5. Multiple Properties

• Keep one set of instructions for every clearance: who holds keys, what "ready to re-list" means, who to contact.
• Ask about a standing arrangement with a single point of contact.
• Keep a record of each property, the date and the work done.

Related

• End of tenancy clearance
• Apartment clearance
• Preparing a rental property for new tenants
• Property clearance: a guide for landlords, executors and property managers

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