# Move-in inspection protocol rental apartment: step by step *Marit Lindgren* *12 november 2026* > A move-in inspection protects you as a tenant. Here is how to fill in the inspection protocol correctly and avoid disputes when you move out. Inspecting the flat when you move in is one of the most important steps you can take as a tenant. A proper inspection protocol protects you from claims for damage that was already there when you moved in. Here we explain how a move-in inspection works for a rental apartment, what should go into the protocol, and which mistakes to avoid. ## Move-in inspection protocol rental apartment: what it means A move-in inspection is a joint walk-through of the flat with the landlord, or the landlord's representative, at the time you take over the flat. The purpose is to document the condition of the flat so that both you and the landlord have a common record. Under chapter 12 of the Swedish Land Code (Jordabalken), which regulates residential tenancies in Sweden, the tenant is entitled to a flat in a habitable condition. At the same time, the tenant has a duty to maintain the flat and to report defects that arise. An inspection protocol at move-in makes it easier to determine which damage existed from the start and which has arisen during the tenancy. The Swedish Union of Tenants (Hyresgästföreningen) recommends that you always carry out a move-in inspection and sign a protocol, even if the landlord does not suggest it. ## When should the inspection be carried out? The inspection should take place when you receive the keys and take over the flat, ideally before you have started unpacking or furnishing. It is easier to see damage and defects in an empty flat. If you do not manage to inspect before moving in, you should do so as soon as possible after you have taken possession. Any defects you discover should be reported in writing to the landlord within a reasonable time. ## How the inspection works step by step Step 1: Go through every room Go through the flat room by room. Look at walls, floors, ceilings, windows, doors and built-in fixtures. Open taps, test light switches and check that the radiators work. Step 2: Note down all damage and defects Write down everything you see, no matter how small it may seem. Scratches in the floor, stains on walls, broken window handles, dripping taps – everything should be recorded in the inspection protocol. Step 3: Take photographs Take photos of the damage and defects you find. Pictures are valuable evidence if there is later a dispute about who is responsible for a defect. Step 4: Agree on who will fix what Discuss with the landlord which defects the landlord will fix and within what time. Note this in the protocol as well. Step 5: Sign the protocol Both you and the landlord should sign the inspection protocol. Ask for a copy and keep it in a safe place together with your tenancy agreement. ## Move-in inspection protocol rental apartment: what should go into it A good inspection protocol should contain: - Date of the inspection - Address of the flat - Name and contact details of you as the tenant and of the landlord - A room-by-room review with noted damage and defects - Any agreements on repairs and deadlines - Signatures from both you and the landlord The more detailed the protocol, the easier it is to show what condition the flat was in when you moved in. This is especially important at a later move-out inspection. ## Common mistakes to avoid Mistake 1: Not inspecting at all Many tenants skip the move-in inspection because it seems complicated or because the landlord says it is not necessary. That is a risk. Without a protocol, it can become your word against the landlord's as to whether a defect was there from the start. Mistake 2: Not noting minor damage A small scratch or a stain may seem insignificant at move-in, but can become a claim for compensation at move-out. Note everything. Mistake 3: Not keeping a copy Make sure you have your own copy of the signed protocol. Keep it together with the tenancy agreement and other important documents about the home. Mistake 4: Not reporting new defects If you discover a defect after moving in, you should report it to the landlord within a reasonable time. Do not wait. ## What if the landlord does not want to inspect? If the landlord refuses to take part in a move-in inspection, you can make your own documentation. Go through the flat, note the damage, take photos and send a written description to the landlord. Ask for confirmation that the landlord has received it. The Swedish Union of Tenants can advise you on how to proceed if the landlord does not cooperate. ## Link to the move-out inspection When the day comes to move out, a move-out inspection is carried out. The condition of the flat is then compared with what was noted at move-in. Read more about how the move-out inspection works in our article on move-out inspection.