First-apartment paperwork checklist

The short answer: Before you sign, verify every cost and rule in the lease. Before you move in, photograph the property's condition. Keep the signed lease, receipts, inspection records, notices, and messages in one place until after the deposit is resolved.

Before paying an application fee

• Confirm the property and person collecting money are legitimate.
• Ask which screening report will be used and what the approval criteria are.
• Get the fee amount and refund policy in writing.
• Do not send sensitive documents through an unverified channel.

Before signing the lease

• Read the entire lease, addenda, community rules, and required disclosures.
• Confirm rent, deposits, fees, utilities, due dates, late charges, renewal terms, and move-out notice.
• Check guest, pet, parking, maintenance, subletting, and early-termination rules.
• Make sure every promise or concession is written into the agreement.
• Identify how repair requests and formal notices must be submitted.

Before accepting the keys

• Complete the move-in condition form.
• Photograph and video every room, appliance, fixture, floor, wall, window, and existing defect.
• Save the original files with dates and back them up.
• Record meter readings when relevant.
• Get receipts for every payment and a complete copy of the signed lease.

Keep until the deposit is settled

• Lease and every addendum
• Application, screening notices, and payment receipts
• Move-in and move-out reports, photos, and videos
• Repair requests and landlord responses
• Rent and utility payment records
• Notice to vacate and forwarding-address confirmation

Official sources

• CFPB: Review your rental background check
• USAGov: Tenant rights and landlord complaints
• HUD: Find a housing counselor

Educational information only, not legal advice. Rental laws and lease terms vary.