Move-in documentation is the baseline for every security deposit dispute. When you have timestamped photos of the unit's condition at move-in, you can show what was already there versus what changed during the tenancy. Here's how to do a move-in inspection with photo timestamps.
What to Document
- Every room — overall and key surfaces (walls, floors, fixtures, appliances)
- Existing damage — scratches, stains, wear, prior repairs — with close-ups
- Meter readings and keys — photo the readings and key handover if relevant
- One set per unit — all photos tied to the same address and move-in date
Why Timestamps Matter
Photos with automatic date and time (and ideally location) prove when the inspection happened and that the condition shown is the move-in condition. TimeFotos adds timestamps to every photo automatically. You create a workspace by property address and add photos room by room; everything is dated and organized.
Share With the Tenant
Provide the tenant with a client share link or a copy of the same photo set so they have the same record. That reduces "I never saw that" disputes at move-out.
Bottom Line
Do a move-in inspection with timestamped photos of every room and existing damage. Keep one organized set per unit and share it with the tenant. You'll have a clear baseline for any move-out or deposit dispute.