The most common cause of deposit disputes isn't anything that happens during the tenancy: it's failing to document the condition of the property at move-in. If you skip this step, the landlord can claim any pre-existing damage was caused by you, and you'll have no evidence to dispute it. For the legal rules on how much can be withheld and why, see Rental Deposit in Taiwan.
Do this on the day you get the keys, before you move a single box in. If you haven't already, this picks up where the apartment viewing checklist and the rental contract checklist leave off.
Part 1: Documentation (Do This First)
1. Walk through the entire unit systematically
Go room by room. Don't rush. Take your time to look at every wall, floor, ceiling, and fixture.
2. Photograph everything
Take clear, dated photos of:
- Every room (wide shots and close-ups)
- Every wall surface, especially corners
- Floor condition throughout
- Window frames and seals
- Bathroom: tiles, grouting, fixtures
- Kitchen: surfaces, appliances, cabinets
- Any pre-existing damage you find
Photos should be timestamped, either by your phone's camera app or by photographing a current newspaper / dated document alongside the damage.
3. Create a written inventory list
Write down every item in the unit (furniture, appliances, fixtures) and its condition. Note anything that's damaged, worn, or missing.
4. Have the landlord sign the list
Both you and the landlord should sign and date the inventory. Keep a copy each. If the landlord refuses to sign or says "it's fine, don't worry about it," push back: this document protects both of you.
5. Email a copy to yourself and the landlord
Creating a digital trail with a timestamp adds another layer of protection.
Part 2: Equipment and Utilities Verification (15 Items)
6. Water meter reading
Record the current meter reading and photograph it. This is your reference point for the first water bill.
7. Electricity meter reading
Same as above. In Taiwan, the electricity meter is usually located near the building entrance or on your floor.
8. Gas meter (if applicable)
If the unit has gas, record the reading.
9. All light fixtures and switches
Test every one. Note any that don't work so you're not charged for them later.
10. All outlets
Test with a charger or small appliance.
11. Water heater
Run hot water in the shower and sink. Check pressure and temperature.
12. Air conditioning
Turn on all A/C units. Check cooling, heating (if applicable), and any unusual noises.
13. Washing machine (if included)
Start a brief cycle to confirm it runs.
14. Refrigerator (if included)
Confirm it's plugged in, cooling, and the door seals properly.
15. Internet / cable connection points
Note where the router port is, whether cable is pre-installed.
16. Locks and keys
Test every door and window lock with the provided keys. Count the keys. Make sure the main lock works smoothly.
17. Intercom / building entry
Test the intercom if there is one.
18. Windows and balcony doors
Open and close fully. Check that locks work. Look for gaps in seals (lets in water, insects, and noise).
19. Drainage
Run water in sinks, shower, and bath. Confirm water drains without backing up.
20. Rubbish chute or bin area
Confirm you know where and how to dispose of rubbish and recycling. In Taiwan, this usually means specific days and times for garbage trucks.
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Part 3: Agreements to Confirm in Writing
After the walk-through, if the landlord agreed to anything verbally (fixing a broken fixture before move-in, replacing an appliance, painting a wall), get it in writing now. A quick message thread on LINE with the landlord confirming the agreement works.
Common verbal promises that get forgotten:
- "I'll fix the water heater before you move in"
- "The parking space is included"
- "Pets are allowed, no problem"
If it isn't written somewhere, it didn't happen.
Move-In Inspection Summary Checklist
- Walked through all rooms systematically
- Photographed all walls, floors, ceilings, and pre-existing damage
- Created written inventory list with conditions
- Both parties signed the inventory
- Emailed copies with timestamp
- Recorded all utility meter readings
- Tested all lights, outlets, and appliances
- Tested all locks and keys
- Checked drainage and water pressure
- Confirmed rubbish/recycling process
- Got verbal agreements in writing
Why This Matters
When you eventually move out, the landlord will compare the property's condition to move-in. If you have dated photos and a signed inventory documenting every pre-existing issue, disputes are resolved quickly and fairly. Without it, you're at a significant disadvantage.
This 45-minute process can save you weeks of stress and potentially thousands of NT dollars in deposit disputes.