Why Inspections Are Non-Negotiable in Alberta
Under the Alberta Residential Tenancies Act, conducting a condition inspection at move-in and move-out is mandatory if you want to retain the right to make deductions from the security deposit. Failing to do a move-in inspection effectively waives your right to claim damage deductions later — regardless of how obvious the damage is.
The Move-In Inspection
Schedule the move-in inspection before or on the day the tenant takes possession. Walk through the entire unit together and document the condition of every room, fixture, and surface. Both the landlord and tenant must sign the condition inspection report. Provide the tenant with a copy within 2 business days.
What to Inspect and Document
- Every wall: scuffs, holes, marks, paint condition
- Floors: scratches, stains, carpet condition
- All appliances: operational, cosmetic condition
- Plumbing fixtures: drips, stains, chips
- Windows: operation, locks, screens
- Doors and locks: operation, condition
- Ceilings: stains, damage
- Exterior and balcony if applicable
Photo Documentation
Beyond the written report, photograph every room and key surface at move-in. Timestamp your photos (your phone camera does this automatically). Use a naming convention: "LivingRoom_SW_corner_movein.jpg". Store these securely for the duration of the tenancy and 3+ years after.
The Move-Out Inspection
Conduct a move-out inspection ideally within 1 business day of the tenant vacating. Compare directly to the move-in report. Note only damage that wasn't documented at move-in. Keep normal wear and tear separate from billable damage.
If the Tenant Won't Participate
You must make two written attempts to schedule the move-in inspection with the tenant. If they refuse to participate despite two attempts, you may conduct the inspection without them — document your attempts. For move-out, proceed similarly.