The Complete Make-Ready Checklist
A thorough make-ready turnover protects your investment, reduces tenant complaints, and helps you lease faster. Here's the checklist we use for every turnover at DallasPlumber.com.
Plumbing Check
Run all faucets — check for leaks, drips, low pressure
Flush all toilets — check for running, weak flush, rocking
Run garbage disposal — check for jams, leaks, grinding issues
Check under all sinks for leaks
Run dishwasher through a cycle
Check water heater — age, condition, leaks, temperature
Test all hose bibs (exterior faucets)
Check water pressure (should be 40-80 PSI)
Electrical Check
Test all outlets (use a tester — look for open ground, reversed polarity)
Test all light switches
Replace any burned-out bulbs
Test smoke detectors — replace batteries or entire unit if over 10 years old
Test CO detectors
Check GFCI outlets in kitchen, bathrooms, garage (test/reset)
Replace air filter
Walls, Ceilings, Floors
Patch all nail holes and drywall damage
Paint — at minimum touch-up, ideally full repaint between tenants
Check for water stains on ceilings (indicates leak above)
Inspect all flooring for damage
Steam clean carpets or replace if stained/worn
Kitchen
Deep clean oven, stovetop, microwave
Clean refrigerator inside and out
Clean dishwasher
Clean and sanitize countertops
Check cabinet doors and drawer slides
Bathrooms
Re-caulk tub/shower if needed ($129 for full bath re-caulk)
Check grout condition
Clean and sanitize all surfaces
Check toilet seat — replace if stained or damaged
Doors, Windows, Locks
Rekey all exterior locks ($35/lock — essential between tenants)
Check all door operation — adjust, lubricate, repair
Check window operation — open, close, lock
Replace any torn screens
Exterior & Landscaping
Mow, edge, trim
Remove any tenant-left debris
Pressure wash driveway/walkways if needed
Check fence condition
Final Walkthrough
All utilities on and working
Property is move-in clean
Photo document entire property (timestamp photos)
Keys ready for new tenant
What It Costs
At DallasPlumber.com, our make-ready packages start at $1,499 for a studio/1BR light turnover and $3,299 for a standard 3BR. We handle everything on this list with one call, one point of contact, and one invoice.
Call (682) 900-4100 or visit our make-ready page for pricing details.