Before You Sign Anything
Move-in day sets the tone for your entire stay. Rush it and you'll discover problems after you've paid. Take 1–2 hours to systematically inspect everything, document the condition, and confirm all the details. This checklist covers every step.
The Inspection Checklist
- Test all light switches and electrical outlets (bring a phone charger)
- Run all faucets — check hot water pressure and temperature
- Flush all toilets — check for leaks around the base
- Test the shower — water pressure, drainage speed, hot water delay
- Open and close all windows and doors — check locks
- Test the stove/oven (gas or electric — confirm which)
- Check the refrigerator — is it cold? Listen for unusual noises
- Test the washing machine if included
- Test WiFi speed — run a Speedtest.net test and screenshot the result
- Check phone signal strength in all rooms
- Inspect mattress condition — stains, firmness, cleanliness
- Check for water stains on ceilings (indicates leaks above)
- Test the water heater — how long until hot water arrives?
- Check building security — does the front door lock? Is there a portero?
- Locate the circuit breaker/fuse box
- Test the intercom/buzzer system if applicable
The Documentation Checklist
- Photograph EVERY room — walls, floors, ceilings, furniture (minimum 100 photos)
- Video walkthrough of the entire apartment (timestamp will prove date)
- Document any existing damage — scratches, stains, chips, broken items
- Get a written inventory list of all furniture and appliances included
- Photograph utility meters (water, gas, electricity) — note current readings
- Screenshot the WiFi name and password
- Save the landlord's phone number, WhatsApp, and email
- Get the portero's contact information if applicable
- Confirm trash collection days and recycling rules
- Get building admin contact for maintenance requests
Contract Confirmation
- Confirm exact monthly rent amount (COP, not USD)
- Confirm what's included: utilities? WiFi? administración?
- Confirm utility cap/tope if included — what's the overage rate?
- Confirm deposit amount and return conditions
- Confirm notice period for leaving
- Confirm payment method (transfer, Nequi, cash) and due date
- Get two copies of the signed contract — one for you, one for landlord
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Frequently Asked Questions
At least 100. Photograph every wall, every piece of furniture, every appliance, every existing scratch or stain. These photos are your primary protection against unfair damage claims when you move out.
Report issues to your landlord immediately via WhatsApp with photos. Most problems discovered in the first week should be the landlord's responsibility. Get written confirmation of any repair commitments.
Absolutely. Run a Speedtest.net test on the apartment WiFi. For remote work, you need minimum 50 Mbps download, ideally 100+. Ask the landlord which ISP provides the internet — Movistar fiber is the most reliable.
A tope is a utility cap. Many furnished rentals include utilities up to a set amount (e.g., COP 250,000/month). Any usage above the tope is charged as an overage. Confirm the tope amount and overage rate in your contract.
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