Vacancy Turn Preparation and Make-Ready Checklist
This vacancy turn preparation checklist guides property managers through the complete make-ready process to prepare a rental unit for the next tenant after a vacancy. A thorough and systematic turn reduces vacancy days, ensures new tenant satisfaction, and protects against future maintenance complaints. This checklist covers all tasks from initial assessment through final approval including cleaning, repairs, painting, and safety verification.
- Industry: Property Management
- Frequency: Per Vacancy Turn
- Estimated Time: 2-4 hours (spread over multiple days)
- Role: Property Manager / Maintenance Coordinator / Turn Crew Supervisor
- Total Items: 29
- Compliance: State Habitability Standards, ICC International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, EPA Lead Renovation Repair and Painting Rule, Local Building Codes
Initial Assessment and Scope Development
Walk the vacant unit to document all work required before starting any tasks.
- Prior tenant fully moved out and keys returned?
- Damage walkthrough completed and repair list created?
- Painting scope determined (full repaint vs. touch-up)?
- Carpet scope determined?
- All appliances tested and repair needs identified?
- Master work order created with all tasks, vendors, and timeline?
Unit Cleaning and Sanitation
Full professional-grade cleaning of all unit areas.
- Full unit deep clean completed (all surfaces, inside cabinets, fixtures)?
- All kitchen appliances cleaned inside and out (oven, refrigerator, dishwasher)?
- Bathrooms fully sanitized including grout, caulk lines, and fixtures?
- All windows cleaned inside and out?
- Carpets professionally cleaned or replaced as determined in assessment?
- Hard floors cleaned, scrubbed, and polished/waxed as needed?
Repairs, Patching, and Painting
Complete all repairs and painting before cleaning final touches.
- All wall holes patched and sanded smooth?
- Painting completed per determined scope (full or touch-up)?
- All interior doors adjusted to close and latch properly?
- Missing or damaged hardware replaced (handles, hinges, outlet covers)?
- Caulk in tub/shower and around sinks freshened as needed?
- All light bulbs operational and matching (same type throughout)?
Safety Devices and Final Quality Check
Verify all safety devices and complete final inspection before tenant move-in.
- Smoke detectors installed in all required locations and tested?
- CO detectors installed per code requirements for fuel-burning equipment?
- All locks rekeyed or lock cylinders replaced?
- HVAC filter replaced with new filter?
- All utilities (electric, gas, water) functional and tested?
- Final turn photos taken for move-in condition record?
Final Approval and Leasing Readiness
Confirm unit is ready for new tenant and leasing activity.
- Final manager walkthrough and approval completed?
- Unit listed for marketing (photos updated, listing posted)?
- New key sets prepared (typically 2 sets per tenant)?
- Access to amenities verified (pool fob, gate code, gym access)?
- Total turn costs documented for property records and owner reporting?
Related Property Management Checklists
- Annual Property Condition Assessment Checklist
- Annual Property Condition Assessment Checklist
- Apartment Unit Turnover Deep Cleaning Checklist
- Rental Property Showing Preparation Checklist
- Lease Renewal Property Inspection Checklist
- Security Deposit Deduction Documentation Checklist
Related Maintenance Repairs Checklists
Why Use This Vacancy Turn Preparation and Make-Ready Checklist?
This vacancy turn preparation and make-ready checklist helps property management teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for property manager / maintenance coordinator / turn crew supervisor professionals, this checklist covers 29 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: per vacancy turn.
Ensures compliance with State Habitability Standards, ICC International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, EPA Lead Renovation Repair and Painting Rule, Local Building Codes, HUD Housing Quality Standards, UK Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS), Australia Residential Tenancies Act. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Vacancy Turn Preparation and Make-Ready Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 29 inspection items across 5 sections: Initial Assessment and Scope Development, Unit Cleaning and Sanitation, Repairs, Patching, and Painting, Safety Devices and Final Quality Check, Final Approval and Leasing Readiness. It is designed for property management operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed per vacancy turn. Each completion takes approximately 2-4 hours (spread over multiple days).
Who should use this Vacancy Turn Preparation and Make-Ready Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Property Manager / Maintenance Coordinator / Turn Crew Supervisor professionals in the property management industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.