How to Hand Over an Apartment to a New Tenant
An apartment handover is more than exchanging keys. A prepared walkthrough records the starting condition, confirms what is included and shows the tenant the few actions that matter immediately.
Prepare the property before the meeting
Finish cleaning and minor repairs in advance. Test lighting, water, locks, windows and every appliance listed in the inventory.
- The home is clean and aired.
- All key sets are present and labelled.
- Appliances start without errors.
- Existing defects are photographed.
- Meter readings are recorded on the handover day.
Record condition and inventory precisely
Walk through every room together. Replace vague descriptions such as “good condition” with observable facts. Date the photos and store them with the agreed handover record.
| Record | Example |
|---|---|
| Keys | Two apartment sets and one mailbox key |
| Meters | Cold water 00125; hot water 00084 |
| Existing defect | Chip on the tile by the bathroom entrance |
| Appliance | Washing machine tested; instructions shared |
Demonstrate only critical actions
Show the electrical panel, water shut-off, entry system and any appliance quirk that could cause damage. Put the remaining detail in a structured guide the tenant can reopen later.
- Where to shut off water.
- What to do during a power issue.
- Who handles an urgent problem.
- How agreed meter readings are submitted.
Finish with a shared confirmation
- The record has no ambiguous blank fields.
- Both sides have the agreed copy.
- The key count matches the record.
- Support and emergency contacts are clear.
- The digital guide opens on the tenant's phone.
Create a clear guide for your property
Put verified instructions in one mobile guide and keep them current at the same link.
Frequently asked questions
Should a home guide replace the tenancy agreement?
No. A home guide explains practical actions in the property; it does not replace legal terms or professional advice.
How often should the guide be reviewed?
Review it before every move-in and whenever access, appliances, contacts, rules or photos change.
Can sensitive access codes be included?
Permanent access secrets should not appear in open text. Share them through an appropriately protected process with the intended recipient.
