Minnesota rental inspection report template

Minnesota rules for this report

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

• At the start of a tenancy, or within 14 days after the tenant occupies the unit, the landlord tells the tenant they may request an initial inspection to identify existing deficiencies so they are not deducted from the deposit later; a requested inspection is scheduled at a mutually acceptable date and timeMinn. Stat. s. 504B.182, subd. 1 (a)
• Instead of an initial or move-out inspection, where the tenant agrees, the landlord may give the tenant written acknowledgment of photos or videos of the unit and agree on its condition at the start or end of the tenancyMinn. Stat. s. 504B.182, subd. 1 (b)
• Within a reasonable time after either side gives notice to end the tenancy, or before the lease term ends, the landlord tells the tenant in writing of their option to request a move-out inspection and their right to be presentMinn. Stat. s. 504B.182, subd. 2
• On the tenant's request, the landlord or agent makes the move-out inspection at a reasonable time no earlier than five days before the tenancy ends or the tenant plans to vacate, so the tenant can remedy identified deficiencies and avoid deductions; if the tenant does not request one, the landlord's duty is dischargedMinn. Stat. s. 504B.182, subd. 2
• A lease term waiving these inspection rights is void, apart from the tenant simply choosing not to request an inspectionMinn. Stat. s. 504B.182, subd. 4
• A landlord who does not give the inspection notices, or does not carry out a requested initial or move-out inspection, owes the tenant a penalty equal to the part of the deposit withheld plus interest, on top of returning what was wrongly withheldMinn. Stat. s. 504B.178, subd. 4 (4)
• Within three weeks after the tenancy ends, and after receiving the tenant's mailing address or delivery instructions, the landlord returns the deposit with interest or gives a written statement showing the specific reason for withholding any of itMinn. Stat. s. 504B.178, subd. 3 (a)
• The landlord may withhold only amounts reasonably necessary to cover rent or other money due under an agreement, or to restore the premises to their condition at the start of the tenancy, ordinary wear and tear excepted; in a dispute the landlord must prove the reasonMinn. Stat. s. 504B.178, subd. 3 (b) and (c)
• Bad-faith retention adds punitive damages of up to 500 dollars per deposit, and retention is presumed to be in bad faith if the landlord missed the three-week rule and does not return the deposit within two weeks after a suit beginsMinn. Stat. s. 504B.178, subd. 7

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
• Deficiencies the tenant may remedy before moving out (pre-move-out)Room and item, Deficiency identified, Notes

Rules last reviewed October 10, 2026. Read the full Minnesota rental inspection report requirements.