What photos should I take when I move out, so I get my deposit back?

First, one unbroken video with your phone's own camera, which keeps the original date and location. Start outside the front door and say the date, time and address out loud. Walk every room slowly, then open every closet, cabinet and appliance.

Then photos, room by room: the whole room from the doorway, each wall, the floor or carpet, the ceiling and lights, the windows and blinds, and any marks or holes. In the kitchen, the inside of the oven, fridge and dishwasher. In bathrooms, the grout, the toilet and the vanity.

Finish with the meters, the thermostat, the smoke detectors, and every key laid out together.

Send the photos to the landlord with your forwarding address and keep a copy. Do the same when you move in, before a single box comes through the door.

Source: New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, Truth in Renting; common practice · Checked October 2026

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