A scratch on the floor or a mark on the wall is easier to discuss when you have a clear record of how the home looked at handover.

Take photos before unpacking or moving furniture in, while the condition of each room is easy to see. Document existing issues and confirm them with the landlord to help with later checks and follow-up.

What should you photograph?

Work through each room to avoid missing anything:

• Walls and ceilings: Existing marks, cracks, water stains and dirt.
• Floors, doors and windows: Chips, scratches, locks and window frames.
• Kitchen and bathroom fittings: Taps, sinks, cupboard doors and connection points.
• Furniture and appliances: Appearance, model details and existing damage.
• Utility meters: Readings and numbers for the handover record.
• Keys and accessories: Quantities and items supplied with the flat.

Take a wide shot for context, followed by close-ups. A short video can show an issue such as a cupboard door that does not close properly.

Describe the issue and its location

Write a specific description, such as “a water mark on the wall beside the bedroom window”, and attach wide shots and close-ups to make the issue easier to understand.

If the cause is unclear, record the visible condition and ask the landlord or agent to investigate. Keep original photos organised by date and room, rather than relying only on compressed images in a chat.

Share and confirm the record

Send the issue list, photos and videos to the landlord or agent, and ask them to acknowledge receipt. Check any inventory or handover record, noting existing issues and agreed repairs. Keep the relevant replies.

Photograph the same areas when moving out to compare them with your move-in record. Photos help document condition; responsibility still depends on the tenancy terms and circumstances.

Earn rent cashback to help furnish your new home

After taking photos, checking the fittings and completing the handover, you can start making your new home your own. Curtains, storage items and bedding are all possible moving-in expenses.

With RentSmart credit card rent payments, eligible rental spending may earn credit card cashback. Net cashback after service fees can help with household purchases, allowing your regular rent payments to bring a practical benefit to life in your new home.