Overview
The final walkthrough is your last chance to confirm a Miami condo rental is in the same condition you originally viewed it in, and that any repairs discussed have actually been completed, before you hand over move-in funds and accept the keys. Prepare in advance by having move-in funds ready, confirming your move date with the association if an elevator reservation is needed, and setting up utilities. Document everything with photos and notes during the walkthrough itself, since this record protects your security deposit down the line.
What Is a Final Walkthrough?
A final walkthrough happens just before you move in, giving you the chance to confirm the condo matches the condition you originally viewed and that any agreed-upon repairs were completed. You'll walk through the unit with your landlord, their agent, or a property manager to confirm everything is in working order.
How to Prepare Before the Walkthrough
- Gather your move-in funds: have money orders or cashier's checks ready for anything due to the landlord.
- Confirm your move date with the association: if the building requires an elevator reservation, make sure that's locked in ahead of time.
- Schedule movers or a truck in advance so moving day goes smoothly.
- Get renters insurance before move-in to protect your belongings from day one.
- Set up your utilities, including your FPL account for electricity and gas if applicable, so service is active when you arrive.
- Pack and prepare ahead of your actual moving date.
What to Expect at the Walkthrough
- Meet your landlord, their agent, or property manager, who will be present to answer questions and confirm the unit's condition.
- Complete a move-in checklist, documenting the condo's condition. Take your own photos and videos and keep detailed notes for your records, beyond whatever checklist is provided.
- Inspect the unit thoroughly, checking appliances, plumbing, and electrical systems.
- Flag any needed repairs during the walkthrough itself, so they're documented and addressed before you move in.
- Get contact information for reporting maintenance issues after you've moved in.
- Pay move-in costs and receive your keys once everything checks out.
What Happens if Issues Come Up During the Walkthrough
Address anything you find immediately. Document problems, broken appliances, leaky faucets, or anything else, with photos and clear notes as you go. Your landlord or their agent should confirm a timeline for when identified issues will be resolved.
If the issues are significant enough, you may need to delay your move-in date until repairs are completed. If so, coordinate a new date with your landlord, though move-in funds are still generally due in full at the time of the walkthrough itself.
Keep communication clear throughout, both during the walkthrough and after you've moved in. Report any additional issues promptly so they can be addressed quickly, rather than letting them sit unresolved.
