How to Document Damage When Renting — Protect Your Deposit

Your deposit is only as safe as your documentation. On the day you move in, photograph and video every room — walls, floors, ceilings, appliances, fixtures. Pay special attention to existing scratches, stains, dents, and anything that looks worn. Include close-ups with timestamps. Email these to your landlord immediately with a subject line like "Move-in condition documentation" so there is a dated record both parties can access.

Do the same when you move out. Walk through the apartment side by side with your landlord if possible and agree on the condition in writing. Without documentation, disputes become your word against theirs — and landlords have seen this movie before. Ten minutes of photos on day one can save you hundreds or thousands when you leave.