Why Move-In Documentation Is Your Most Important Task
Before you unpack anything, before you put a single item of furniture in place, you need to document the property's condition. This is not optional - it is the foundation of your protection as a tenant for the entire duration of your tenancy.
The move-in inspection is the only opportunity you have to create a timestamped record of the property before your occupation. Everything after this point can be attributed to you. Everything before it cannot - but only if you have evidence proving the condition at move-in.
Complete your move-in inspection before moving furniture in. Furniture covers walls and floors. Once it is in place, you cannot photograph what is underneath. An inspection after furniture is moved in is significantly weaker as evidence.
Step-by-Step Move-In Inspection Process
Open BondProof before you enter with belongings
Start the app, create a new inspection, and begin the room-by-room flow. Do this while the property is still empty - ideally at key handover or on the day you first have access.
Photograph each room systematically
Wide shot of the whole room first. Then close-ups of every wall, the floor, ceiling, windows, and any fixtures. Do not skip corners or behind doors.
Document every mark, stain or imperfection
Any pre-existing damage must be clearly photographed and noted. Do not assume it is too minor to matter - landlords claim for small things regularly.
Complete the agent's condition report
Note every item you have photographed on the condition report. Return a signed copy and keep your own. Photograph your completed copy.
Generate your BondProof move-in report
Your PDF is generated with timestamps and geolocation. Save it securely. This is your evidence for the entire duration of your tenancy.
Areas Most Commonly Missed at Move-In
These are the areas tenants most often forget to photograph at move-in, and where landlords most frequently make bond claims at move-out:
Completing the Agent's Condition Report
You will typically receive a condition report from the agent at the start of your tenancy. This document records the property's general condition room by room. Here is how to use it correctly:
- Go through it room by room alongside your BondProof photos
- Note every mark, stain, or defect you photographed - be specific
- Do not leave any section blank - write "as per photos taken [date]" if needed
- Sign and return a copy within the required timeframe - usually 3 to 5 business days
- Photograph your completed, signed condition report before handing it back
The agent's condition report alone is not sufficient protection. It records general condition in text. Your timestamped photos are what establish the specific state of each area. You need both.
How to Report Existing Issues to the Landlord
If you discover issues at move-in beyond cosmetic marks - faulty appliances, leaking taps, damaged fixtures - report them to the agent in writing immediately. Email is best. This creates a timestamped record that the issue predated your tenancy and puts the landlord on notice to repair it.
Keep copies of all written communications. They become part of your evidence if the issue deteriorates and becomes a dispute point later in the tenancy.