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Move-in handover

Rental move-in checklist (Singapore): key day → first 72 hours

Getting the keys is not the same as “move-in done”. Most disputes start from missing evidence: no photos, no inventory check, no meter readings, and no written defect report within 24–72 hours. Use this conservative timeline + evidence pack + copyable message to reduce future deductions.

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Conservative move-in timeline (key day → first 72 hours)

When What to do
Key handover (first 30 mins) Confirm number of keys/access cards; record a quick walk-in video; photograph electricity/water meter readings with date; verify Wi‑Fi, aircon, water heater, and washer actually power on.
Within 2 hours Do a full-house photo sweep: walls, floors, ceiling, windows, locks, kitchen surfaces, sink, bathroom drainage, mould/water stains. For each issue: take wide + close-up + location shot.
Within 24 hours Send a numbered defects list (with photos) to owner/agent: state what you want (fix/replace/record as existing) and propose a reasonable time window.
Within 72 hours Complete inventory verification (missing/damaged items added to the defects list); confirm utilities/internet splitting and payment method; document repair contact + reporting channel + response expectations.

Your move-in ‘evidence pack’ should include

  • Handover day: unit number, keys/cards count, meter-reading photos (electricity/water) with date.
  • Dated photo sweep: 6–12 photos per room (wide + details), especially corners, scratches, mould, leaks, window gaps, cabinet doors.
  • Defects list: one line per issue (numbered: location + description + requested action + photo reference).
  • Written confirmations: utilities split, aircon rules, cooking/visitors, and repair responsibility.

How to write a defects list (less drama, more proof)

  • Use four fields per item: location, current condition, impact, requested action (fix/replace/record).
  • Avoid emotional words; use observable descriptions (e.g., “bathroom floor trap backflow”).
  • Attach proof: wide + close-up; for functional issues, add a short video.
  • If they won’t fix it now: ask for written confirmation it’s an existing defect (conservative approach).

Move-in starter budget (May 2026, conservative ranges)

These are planning ranges, not quotes. The goal is to get through week 1 without surprise spending breaking your cash flow.

Item Typical range Notes
Bedding (pillow/linen/blanket) S$40–220 Rooms may not include full bedding; sleep quality first
Fan / small appliances S$30–180 Don’t rely on aircon as your only comfort plan
Cleaning supplies + bin liners S$15–60 Common ‘repeat purchase’ trap in week 1
Basic kitchen set (only if you cook) S$20–180 Start minimal; avoid one-time overbuy
Small fixes (bulbs/hooks, etc.) S$10–60 Confirm what’s allowed before you modify anything

Copyable message: move-in defects list template

  • Hi [Name] — I moved into [address/unit] today. To avoid misunderstandings later, I’m sharing the move-in defects list (with dated photos). Please confirm which items will be fixed, and which are recorded as existing defects.
  • 1) [Location] — [Issue] — [Impact] — Request: [Fix/Replace/Record] (Photos: #1–#2)
  • 2) ...
  • Also please confirm: utilities/internet splitting + billing cycle, aircon usage rules, and the repair contact / reporting channel. Thank you.