What is a common practice during tenant move-out?

Documenting the property's condition is essential during tenant move-out as it serves several important purposes. This practice involves conducting a thorough inspection of the unit and noting any damages, wear and tear, or changes to the property since the tenant moved in.

Having a documented record is beneficial for both the property manager and the tenant. It provides clarity on the state of the unit, ensuring that the security deposit can be accurately assessed against any damages that exceed normal wear and tear. This documentation helps protect the property management from disputes with the tenant over deposit returns and can be critical if legal issues arise concerning property condition. It fosters transparency and fairness in the tenant's move-out process, which contributes to a positive reputation for the property management company and can affect tenant retention and referrals.

In contrast, increasing late fees, locking out tenants without notice, and completing move-in inspections pertain to different aspects of property management that are not relevant to the immediate concerns during the tenant move-out process. These practices may impact the overall tenant experience but do not focus on the critical need to assess and document the unit's condition accurately.