Rent Ready Standards

A property is considered Rent Ready when it is safe, functional, clean, and prepared for immediate occupancy by a new tenant without requiring additional repairs, maintenance, or cleaning.

• 1. Safety Standards

  The home must be free from safety hazards and comply with habitability requirements.

  Requirements

  • Functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (where required)
  • Secure exterior doors and operable locks
  • Safe stairways, handrails, and walkways
  • No exposed wiring or electrical hazards
  • No active leaks or water intrusion
  • No visible mold concerns
  • All windows open, close, and lock properly

  Why: A tenant should be able to move in without encountering health or safety risks.

• 2. Cleanliness Standards

  The property must be professionally cleaned or cleaned to a professional standard.

  Requirements

  • Floors swept, mopped, and professional carpet cleaning done
  • Cabinets, countertops, and appliances cleaned
  • Bathrooms sanitized and free of buildup
  • Windows and window tracks reasonably clean
  • Trash and personal belongings removed
  • Garage, storage areas, and exterior free of debris

  Why: New tenants should receive a home that is clean and move-in ready.

• 3. Mechanical and Systems Check

  All major systems must be operational.

  Requirements

  • Heating system fully functional
  • Air conditioning operational (if provided)
  • Water heater functioning properly
  • Plumbing fixtures operate correctly
  • No active leaks
  • Electrical outlets, switches, and fixtures operational
  • Garage door openers functioning (if applicable)

  Why: Tenants should not move in with immediate maintenance issues.

• 4. Appliance Requirements

  Any appliance provided with the property must be in working order.

  Requirements

  • Refrigerator cools properly
  • Range/oven operates safely
  • Dishwasher runs correctly
  • Microwave functions properly (if provided)
  • Washer/dryer operational (if included)

  Why: Included appliances are part of the rental agreement and should work as intended.

• 5. Interior Condition Standards

  The interior should present well and be ready for occupancy.

  Requirements

  • Walls free from excessive damage
  • Holes, dents, and patchwork properly repaired
  • Doors and hardware functional
  • Flooring free from significant damage or trip hazards
  • Light fixtures have working bulbs where applicable
  • Window coverings functional and presentable

  Why: The home should be in a condition that supports successful leasing and tenant satisfaction.

• 6. Exterior Standards

  The exterior must be maintained and presentable.

  Requirements

  • Lawn mowed and maintained (season permitting)
  • Landscaping reasonably groomed
  • Exterior hazards removed
  • Fencing and gates operational
  • Exterior lighting functional
  • Address numbers visible

  Why: Curb appeal supports leasing success and ensures safe access.

• 7. Pest-Free Condition

  The property must be free of known infestations.

  Requirements

  • No evidence of active rodents
  • No active insect infestation
  • Any necessary pest treatment completed prior to occupancy

  Why: Tenants should receive a home free from pest concerns.

• 8. Keys, Access, and Security

  The property must be ready for secure tenant possession.

  Requirements

  • Rekey completed if required
  • All keys accounted for
  • Garage remotes available
  • Mailbox keys available when applicable
  • Access codes verified and updated

  Why: The tenant must have secure and reliable access on move-in day.

• 9. Vendor Work Completion

  All approved turnover or make-ready work must be completed before the property is listed as Rent Ready.

  Requirements

  • All maintenance work orders closed
  • Vendor invoices submitted
  • Quality inspections completed
  • Any outstanding deficiencies corrected

  Why: A property should not be marketed as Rent Ready if active repair work remains.