Delaware rental inspection report template

Delaware rules for this report

These rules are about how and when you report, not the template's fields. Check them before you deliver.

• Within 20 days after the rental agreement ends or expires, the landlord gives the tenant an itemized list of damages to the premises with the estimated cost of repair for each, and pays the difference between the security deposit and those costsDelaware Code, Title 25, s. 5514 (f)
• If the landlord does not send that list, the law treats it as the landlord's acknowledgment that no payment for damages is dueDelaware Code, Title 25, s. 5514 (f)
• A tenant who accepts a payment sent with the itemized list agrees to the damages as listed, unless they object in writing to the amount withheld within 10 days of receiving itDelaware Code, Title 25, s. 5514 (f)
• For damage, the security deposit reimburses the landlord for actual damage caused to the premises by the tenant which exceeds normal wear and tear, or which cannot be corrected by painting and ordinary cleaningDelaware Code, Title 25, s. 5514 (c) (1)
• Normal wear and tear means the deterioration in the condition of a property or premises by its ordinary and reasonable useDelaware Code, Title 25, s. 5141 (23)
• Not returning the deposit, or the difference between the deposit and the listed damages, within 20 days after the rental agreement ends entitles the tenant to double the amount wrongfully withheldDelaware Code, Title 25, s. 5514 (g) (1)
• Notices and the deposit go to the tenant at the address in the rental agreement, or at a forwarding address the tenant gives in writing by the end of the tenancy. Without such an address the landlord is relieved of the notice and of the double-damages liability, but still owes any unused deposit if the tenant claims it in writing within 1 yearDelaware Code, Title 25, s. 5514 (h)
• Damage caused by an animal is deducted from the pet deposit first, and from the security deposit only where the pet deposit is not enough; the 20-day itemized list applies to the pet deposit tooDelaware Code, Title 25, s. 5514 (i) (1)
• Where the tenant bought a surety bond instead of paying a deposit, the landlord still gives the itemized list of damages with estimated repair costs within 20 days, and a tenant who does not object within 10 days of receiving it agrees to the damages listedDelaware Code, Title 25, s. 5514A (h)
• During the tenancy, the tenant reports in writing, as soon as practicable, any defective condition they believe the landlord must repair, unless the landlord already knows of itDelaware Code, Title 25, s. 5505 (a) and (c)

What is in it

• Entry and hallwaysWalls and ceiling, Floor, Doors and locks, Lights and switches
• Living and dining areasWalls and ceiling, Floor and carpet, Windows, screens and coverings, Outlets, lights and switches
• KitchenStove, oven and range hood, Refrigerator and freezer, Dishwasher, Sink, faucet and drain, Counters and cabinets, Walls, ceiling and floor
• BedroomsWalls and ceilings, Floors and carpet, Windows, screens and coverings, Closets and doors
• BathroomsToilet, Tub, shower, grout and caulking, Sink, vanity and mirror, Exhaust fan, Walls, ceiling and floor
• Laundry and utilityWasher and dryer, Heating, cooling and thermostat, Water heater
• Safety devicesSmoke alarms tested, Carbon monoxide alarms tested, Fire extinguisher
• Exterior, parking and storageBalcony, patio or yard, Parking or garage, Storage
• Keys, fobs and remotesItem, Quantity, Notes

Rules last reviewed October 9, 2026. Read the full Delaware rental inspection report requirements.