Condition Inspection Report
Medium RiskA written record of the state of a rental unit, completed by the landlord and tenant together at move-in and move-out, used to determine responsibility for any damage.
In Plain English
A condition inspection report is the move-in/move-out checklist you and your landlord fill out to document the unit's state. It's your best defence against unfair deposit deductions: if the report shows a scuff was there when you arrived, you can't be charged for it later. In several provinces, if the landlord skips the proper inspection, they can lose the right to claim against your deposit.
Why It Matters for Tenants
Deposit disputes usually come down to evidence. A signed inspection report — plus your own dated photos — is what turns a he-said/she-said into a win. In some provinces the report is legally required for the landlord to keep any of your deposit.
Risk Level
Medium risk: skipping or ignoring the inspection is where tenants lose deposits. Doing it properly is simple and highly protective.
Example Clause
The Landlord and Tenant shall complete a joint condition inspection report at the start and end of the tenancy. A copy shall be provided to the Tenant. Failure to comply may affect the Landlord's right to claim against the deposit.
This is a representative example for educational purposes. Actual lease language varies.
Common Mistakes Tenants Make
- Not completing or getting a copy of the move-in and move-out report
- Relying on the report alone without taking your own dated photos
- Signing a report that doesn't note existing damage
Provincial and State Variations
BC requires move-in and move-out inspection reports, and a landlord who doesn't offer the required opportunities can lose the right to claim against the deposit. Alberta and Manitoba also use inspection reports. Ontario has no mandatory form, but photos and a written record are strongly advised. Quebec has no deposit, but a move-in record still helps.