Unit Turnover Checklist for Rental Units

How to use this checklist

Work through the groups in order. The first group starts the day notice arrives, because listing the unit and booking the move-out inspection early are what keep the empty days down. Each empty day costs rent: the vacancy cost calculator shows how much for your unit.

Deposit deadlines and entry notice rules differ by province. The security deposit calculator lists the return deadline in each one.

Prints without the website around it. Choose Save as PDF in the print window to keep a digital copy.

From notice to new tenant

When the tenant gives notice

Confirm the move-out date in writing Ask for the tenant's forwarding address in writing, for returning the deposit Book the move-out inspection and invite the tenant to attend Check the rent against similar units listed nearby Start listing the unit Give the current tenant whatever notice of entry your province requires before each showing

Move-out day

Walk through every room with the tenant, using the inspection checklist Take dated photos of every room, including inside the appliances Collect every key, fob, remote and mailbox key Record the electricity, gas and water meter readings Note anything the tenant left behind

The deposit

List any damage beyond normal wear and tear, using the inspection report Get quotes or keep receipts for any repair you plan to deduct Return the deposit, or apply to keep part of it, before your province's deadline

Make the unit ready

Deep clean, including inside the oven, fridge and cabinets Patch nail holes and repaint where needed Fix everything noted on the move-out inspection Replace furnace and air conditioning filters Test the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and replace the batteries Check taps, toilets and drains for leaks or slow draining Check windows, screens, blinds and door locks Re-key or change the locks Check for pests

List it again

Take new photos once the unit is ready Update the listing: rent, move-in date, utilities, parking and pet policy Open tour times in your calendar Reply to every inquiry quickly, including evenings and weekends

Hand over to the new tenant

Sign the lease, using your province's standard lease form where one is required Do the move-in inspection together and give the tenant a copy Hand over the keys and record what was given Share the move-in details: garbage days, laundry, parking and emergency contacts Confirm who is setting up each utility

Unit turnover questions

What is a unit turnover?

A unit turnover is the work between one tenant moving out and the next one moving in: the move-out inspection, the deposit, cleaning and repairs, listing the unit again and the move-in inspection.

How do you shorten a unit turnover?

Start before the tenant leaves. List the unit when notice arrives, book cleaners and trades before move-out day, and reply to inquiries quickly so tours happen while the unit is being readied.

Can you show a unit before the current tenant moves out?

Usually, yes, as long as you give the current tenant whatever notice of entry your province requires and show the unit at a reasonable time. The notice period and allowed hours differ by province.

Should you change the locks between tenants?

It is good practice. Former tenants and anyone they gave a key to can still get in otherwise, even after every key you know about has been returned.

Fill the unit before it is ready

QuickCasa answers every inquiry around the clock and books tours from your real availability, so the next tenant can be lined up while the make-ready work is still going on.

Book a demo See tour scheduling

Unit turnover checklist