Move-in Inspection Checklist for Dubai Rentals

How to use this checklist

Walk through the property with the landlord or PM. Note every defect on the inventory sheet. Photograph each defect with your phone (timestamp on). Sign the inventory only after both parties agree to the noted defects. Email a copy of the signed inventory and photos to yourself and the landlord same day.

Whole-property check

• [ ] Front door: lock, hinges, peephole, fingerprints/scratches
• [ ] All keys (apartment, building access, mailbox, parking) handed over and tested
• [ ] Smoke detector tested
• [ ] Electricity meter reading recorded
• [ ] DEWA premise number confirmed and matches Ejari

Living areas

• [ ] Walls: any holes, scuffs, paint defects, cracks
• [ ] Floor: tiles loose, scratches, missing grout, carpet stains
• [ ] Ceiling: cracks, water marks, sagging
• [ ] Windows: open/close, lock, screens, sealant condition
• [ ] Sockets and switches: all working, no loose plates
• [ ] Light fixtures: all bulbs working, fittings secure

Kitchen

• [ ] Cabinets: doors align, hinges work, no chipped panels
• [ ] Worktops: scratches, chips, sealant condition
• [ ] Sink: leaks under, taps work, drain clear
• [ ] Hob, oven, hood: all elements working, ventilation clear
• [ ] Fridge, dishwasher, microwave (if included): test each
• [ ] Tiles: no missing or cracked
• [ ] Pest evidence: any droppings, gnaw marks, bait boxes

Bathrooms

• [ ] Toilet: flush, no leaks, seat secure, water connection
• [ ] Sink: drain clear, taps work, no leaks, sealant intact
• [ ] Shower / bath: tap, drain, glass screen, tile grout
• [ ] Extractor fan: working, vent clear
• [ ] Mirror, towel rails: secure, no chips

Bedrooms

• [ ] Wardrobes: doors align, all rails/shelves present
• [ ] AC unit: cool air output, drainage tube clear
• [ ] Carpet (if applicable): stains, burns, edges secure

AC system

• [ ] Each AC zone: turn on, confirm cooling within 5 min
• [ ] Filter: clean (request replacement if dusty)
• [ ] Drain: no water in tray
• [ ] Thermostat: responds to settings

Balcony

• [ ] Floor tiles: secure, no cracks
• [ ] Railings: secure
• [ ] Drainage: clear
• [ ] Outdoor sockets: working

Storage

• [ ] Maid's room (if applicable): walls, floor, AC
• [ ] Storeroom: shelves, lighting, ventilation

Other

• [ ] Building amenities access (gym, pool, BBQ): card/key works
• [ ] Parking allocation: space matches contract
• [ ] Mailbox: key works