Why use a move-in checklist?

A signed move-in condition report documents how the unit looked at the start. At move-out, you compare it to support lawful deposit deductions. In Florida, unused deposit is generally due within 15 days after the tenancy ends.

What is ordinary wear and tear?

Wear and tear is the normal deterioration from living in a home — minor scuffs, faded paint, worn carpet in traffic paths. It is not deductible from a security deposit. Damage beyond that may be.

Should the tenant sign the move-in checklist?

Yes, when possible. Both sides should walk the unit, note existing damage, and sign and date the list. Each party keeps a copy.

Florida · Move-in checklist · Free to generate and download

Florida Move-In Condition Checklist

Florida landlords who want to keep part of a deposit need a claim letter and a paper trail. A signed move-in list is how you show the unit’s starting condition when the 15- or 30-day clock runs.

15 days to return the deposit if you make no claim (Fla. Stat. § 83.49).
30 days to send written notice if you are claiming a deduction.
This checklist is not a lease.

Open a filled sample with every optional field and checkbox completed.

Florida disclosure checklist

Last reviewed 2026-08-15. Confirm current statutes before you rely on this list.

Radon gas noticeRequired
Every Florida rental agreement must include the statutory radon notice. The wording is prescribed and should appear verbatim.
Fla. Stat. § 404.056
How the deposit is heldRequired
Tell the tenant in writing whether the deposit is in a separate Florida account, commingled with a surety bond posted, or otherwise held, and where.
Fla. Stat. § 83.49
Landlord name and addressRequired
Disclose the landlord’s (or authorized agent’s) name and address for notices and service.
Fla. Stat. § 83.50
Flood disclosureIf it applies
For many residential tenancies, Florida requires a flood-risk disclosure. If the landlord knows of prior flooding, say so in writing.
Fla. Stat. § 83.512
Lead-based paint (pre-1978)If it applies
Federal lead disclosure and the EPA pamphlet apply to pre-1978 housing.
42 U.S.C. § 4852d; 24 CFR Part 35

Deposit rule of thumb

Florida does not cap the size of a residential security deposit. If the landlord makes no claim, the unused deposit is generally due within 15 days after the tenant vacates. If the landlord is keeping some or all of it, written notice of the claim is generally due within 30 days. The lease or a notice should say how and where the deposit is held.

Fla. Stat. § 83.49

The landlord may enter at reasonable times to inspect, repair, or show the unit. Twelve hours’ notice is presumed reasonable. Emergency entry does not require notice (Fla. Stat. § 83.53).

If rent is paid monthly, either party generally may end a month-to-month tenancy with 15 days’ written notice before the end of the monthly period (Fla. Stat. § 83.57).

LeaseGen.io is not a law firm. These notes are educational summaries, not advice.

Frequently asked questions

Plain-language answers about Florida move-in checklist papers. LeaseGen.io is not a law firm. Confirm current statutes before anyone signs.

Why use a move-in checklist?: A signed move-in condition report documents how the unit looked at the start. At move-out, you compare it to support lawful deposit deductions. In Florida, unused deposit is generally due within 15 days after the tenancy ends.
What is ordinary wear and tear?: Wear and tear is the normal deterioration from living in a home — minor scuffs, faded paint, worn carpet in traffic paths. It is not deductible from a security deposit. Damage beyond that may be.
Should the tenant sign the move-in checklist?: Yes, when possible. Both sides should walk the unit, note existing damage, and sign and date the list. Each party keeps a copy.

Florida Move-In Condition Checklist

Related Florida documents

Frequently asked questions