Montreal Apartment Turnover Checklist: What Landlords Should Do Between Tenants

Apartment turnover in Montréal can feel simple on paper: one tenant moves out, the next tenant moves in. In real life, it can turn into a tight race between keys, cleaning, repairs, photos, paperwork, and the new move-in date.

A good turnover is not only about making the place look nice. It protects your rental property, reduces vacancy loss, helps avoid disputes, and gives the next tenant confidence from the first day. It also gives you clear documentation if there is damage, abandoned property, missing keys, or a maintenance request that should have been handled earlier.

For Montréal landlords, the best apartment turnover process is practical: confirm the move out, inspect the rental unit, document the unit’s condition, handle safety first, deep clean, repair what matters, update the rental listing, and prepare the apartment so it is truly move in ready.

This apartment turnover checklist is written for real daily life in Montréal, including furnished units, July 1 pressure, keys and fobs, cleaning tasks, and Québec-specific cautions around deposits and access.

Quick Answer: What Should Landlords Do Between Tenants?

Between tenants, landlords should move in a clear order. The apartment turnover process consists of five essential phases: planning, inspection, maintenance and safety checks, cleaning, and final preparation for the next tenant.

Here is the short version:

• confirm the move-out date and key return;

• ask the tenant about known issues before they leave;

• follow access rules if the tenant is still living there;

• collect all keys, fobs, mailbox keys, remotes, and access cards;

• do a move out inspection before touching anything;

• take timestamped photos and video;

• check smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, locks, windows, plumbing, water pressure, heating, and the HVAC system if applicable;

• fix urgent and necessary repairs first;

• complete the apartment turnover cleaning checklist;

• patch holes, repair drywall, and apply touch ups where needed;

• update furnished inventory, if the unit is furnished;

• refresh photos before publishing the rental listing;

• prepare the lease, emergency contacts, recycling schedule, and move-in instructions;

• make sure the unit is clean, safe, working properly, and ready for new tenants.

Turnover can take from a few days to a few weeks. The best-case turnover window is around 7 days for a full reset, especially if the unit needs cleaning, repairs, paint, and new listing photos. Same day turnover is possible, but only when the apartment is already in good shape and the work is planned before the tenant moves.

Before the Tenant Moves Out: Confirm the Basics

The turnover should start before the apartment is empty. Waiting until the tenant closes the door is how landlords lose time.

Confirm move-out details

Once you receive the move out notice, confirm the details in writing:

• move-out date;

• expected move-out time;

• key and fob return;

• mailbox key;

• garage remote;

• parking pass;

• storage locker key;

• elevator booking, if the unit is in a condo building;

• forwarding contact information, if needed.

Generic landlord advice often says a tenant must provide a move-out notice 30 to 60 days prior. In Montréal, the exact timing depends on the lease situation, so do not rely on generic “state laws” language from outside Québec. Use the lease, Québec rules, and written communication as your reference.

If the next tenant has a signed lease and a confirmed move in date, your schedule matters. The lessor has an obligation to deliver the dwelling in good condition on the agreed date, and TAL recommends checking the premises after the former tenant leaves.

Ask about known issues

Before the tenant leaves, ask whether anything needs attention:

• broken appliances;

• low water pressure;

• slow drains;

• leaks;

• pests;

• damaged blinds;

• loose handles;

• electrical issues;

• heating or hot water problems;

• ceiling fans not working;

• damaged flooring;

• missing keys or fobs.

This does not replace the move out inspection, but it helps you plan. A tenant may mention an issue you would not see during a quick walk through, such as a noisy fridge, a loose outlet, or a water heater problem.

Plan cleaning and repairs early

Book cleaning and maintenance before the apartment is vacant, especially near July 1. Professional cleaners, movers, painters, and repair people get busy fast.

Have these ready:

• cleaning supplies;

• paint and brushes;

• replacement bulbs;

• batteries;

• HVAC filter;

• caulking;

• garbage bags;

• basic tools;

• pest control contact;

• plumber or handyman contact;

• appliance repair contact.

If you manage multiple units or multiple properties, this planning is not optional. A rental turnover checklist keeps the work consistent and protects your property management records.

Access Rules While the Tenant Is Still Living There

Before move-out, the apartment is still the tenant’s home. You cannot treat the rental unit like it is already empty.

In Québec, a landlord who needs to inspect the condition of the dwelling during the lease must generally give 24 hours’ notice and exercise that right with discretion. Visits must also be handled reasonably, and tenant privacy still matters.

For non-urgent repairs, Éducaloi explains that the landlord must notify the tenant at least 24 hours before the work begins, and the work can only be done between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Good practice:

• keep inspection times reasonable;

• communicate in writing;

• do not “just stop by”;

• do not bring contractors without proper notice;

• do not start turnover work before the tenant has actually moved out, unless it has been properly arranged.

Clear access rules protect both you and the tenant.

Move-Out Day: Secure the Apartment First

Move-out day is not the time to start with paint colours. Start with access and safety.

Collect all access items

Collect and count:

• apartment keys;

• building fobs;

• mailbox keys;

• storage locker keys;

• garage remotes;

• parking tags;

• laundry room cards;

• smart lock codes;

• intercom access;

• amenity passes, if applicable.

Missing access items can become a security issue and a cost issue. Note what was returned and what is missing.

Reset access where needed

Changing locks between tenants enhances security and tenant safety. Rekeying locks prevents unauthorized access from previous tenants, contractors, roommates, or anyone who may have received a copy.

Depending on the building, you may need to:

• change locks;

• rekey the unit;

• reset smart lock codes;

• deactivate old fobs;

• update intercom names;

• remove old digital access;

• prepare new keys for the next tenant.

Documenting lock changes is useful for property management records, especially if you manage more than one unit.

Do a quick security check

Before the full inspection, check:

• front door lock;

• balcony door;

• windows and window locks;

• mailbox;

• storage locker;

• signs of forced entry;

• smoke detectors;

• carbon monoxide detectors, if applicable;

• visible leaks or urgent damage.

Changing locks and testing safety devices are part of final preparations for new tenants. Safety comes first.

Document the Condition Before Touching Anything

Before cleaning, repairs, or moving abandoned furniture, document the unit’s condition.

Take timestamped photos during the move-out inspection. Do a video walk through from the entrance to every room. Capture:

• walls;

• floors;

• ceilings;

• doors;

• windows;

• window tracks;

• closets;

• cabinets;

• counters;

• appliances;

• bathroom fixtures;

• balcony;

• storage;

• left behind items;

• garbage disposal area, if relevant;

• keys and access items returned.

Final walkthroughs should compare the current state of the unit against the original move-in report, if you have one. If you documented the unit’s condition with timestamped photos during move-in, this step becomes much easier.

Why documentation matters in Québec

Many turnover articles from outside Québec talk about deducting cleaning fees or damages from a security deposit. Be careful with that language.

In Québec, a landlord cannot require more than one month’s rent, cannot require rent in advance for more than the first payment period, and cannot require additional amounts such as a security deposit, key deposit, or other charge. Éducaloi also describes rental security deposits as a common but illegal practice in Québec.

That does not mean landlords have no recourse if there is damage. It means your risk control should rely on clear documentation, invoices, written communication, inspection notes, and the proper legal process — not informal deposit deductions.

Tenant charges for damages and cleaning fees must comply with the lease and local law. Clear documentation helps reduce disputes.

Safety Checks Come Before Cosmetic Work

A fresh coat of paint can wait. Safety cannot.

Before focusing on staging or photos, check:

• smoke detectors;

• carbon monoxide detectors, if applicable;

• batteries;

• locks;

• windows;

• balcony railings;

• stairs and handrails;

• electrical outlets;

• visible wiring;

• water pressure;

• hot water;

• heating;

• HVAC system and HVAC filter, if applicable;

• plumbing leaks;

• mould or water damage;

• pest signs;

• appliances;

• ceiling fans;

• garbage disposal, if the unit has one.

Inspect smoke detectors and replace batteries before new tenants move in. If the rental unit has carbon monoxide detectors, test those too. These are basic safety devices, not optional extras.

Repairs: What to Fix Before the Next Tenant Moves In

The apartment turnover process involves inspecting the unit, repairing damages, and cleaning. The repair stage should be organized by priority.

Urgent repairs

Urgent repairs are problems that affect safety, access, or basic use of the apartment.

Examples:

• no heat;

• no hot water;

• active leak;

• unsafe lock;

• broken exterior door;

• broken window;

• electrical hazard;

• serious mould;

• major pest issue;

• appliance failure that affects basic living;

• plumbing backup.

These should be handled before cosmetic work.

Necessary repairs

Necessary repairs are not always emergencies, but they affect daily life and unit readiness.

Examples:

• stove not working properly;

• fridge cooling poorly;

• toilet running constantly;

• slow drain;

• broken blinds;

• damaged flooring;

• loose railing;

• damaged cabinet door;

• poor ventilation;

• water heater issue;

• door that does not close properly.

Landlords in Québec must deliver a clean, liveable rental unit and make necessary repairs, except minor maintenance repairs.

Cosmetic repairs

Cosmetic repairs are still important. They affect the first impression, the rental listing, and how prospective renters judge the monthly rent.

Examples:

• patching holes in walls;

• repairing drywall;

• touch-up paint;

• scuffed baseboards;

• loose handles;

• stained caulking;

• worn blinds;

• small floor scratches;

• chipped trim.

Repairing drywall and applying touch-up paint are part of maintenance and repairs. They also make the unit feel cared for.

Upgrades worth considering

Not every turnover needs upgrades. But some small improvements can reduce future maintenance and improve the listing.

Consider:

• neutral paint;

• durable blinds;

• better lighting;

• easy-clean flooring;

• stronger door hardware;

• updated cabinet pulls;

• washable entry mat;

• better bathroom fan;

• appliance replacement if repairs keep repeating.

If you manage multiple units, choose materials that are durable and easy to replace. Fancy finishes are less useful than reliable ones.

Deep Cleaning Checklist Between Tenants

A quick cleaning is rarely enough between tenants. A proper apartment turnover cleaning checklist should cover the whole unit.

Kitchen:

• clean inside fridge and freezer;

• clean oven and stovetop;

• degrease range hood;

• clean microwave;

• clean dishwasher filter;

• wipe cabinets and drawers;

• remove all food debris from appliances;

• clean counters and backsplash;

• check under sink;

• remove odours.

Bathroom:

• scrub toilet, tub, shower, sink;

• clean grout;

• replace mouldy caulking if needed;

• clean mirror and fixtures;

• check fan;

• remove hair from drains;

• clean vanity drawers.

Living areas and bedrooms:

• vacuum and mop floors;

• clean baseboards;

• clean window tracks;

• wipe closet shelves;

• remove scuffs;

• dust ceiling fans;

• clean vents;

• check light fixtures.

Entry, balcony, and storage:

• clean entry door;

• sweep balcony;

• empty locker or storage;

• remove abandoned property;

• dispose of abandoned furniture properly;

• check recycling schedule and garbage rules.

Deep cleaning includes scrubbing kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas thoroughly. Carpets should be professionally cleaned or replaced between tenants if they are stained, odorous, or heavily worn.

If the unit had pets, pet friendly units may need extra cleaning: odour removal, hair removal, filter changes, and closer inspection of floors and doors.

Paint, Floors, and Small Upgrades

Paint and floors change how quickly a unit rents.

Use neutral colours that photograph well and make the apartment feel bright. Patch holes before painting. Touch up high-traffic areas around switches, door frames, hallways, and entry spaces.

Check floors for:

• deep scratches;

• lifted boards;

• cracked tiles;

• carpet stains;

• water damage;

• trip hazards.

Do not over-renovate if the unit only needs turnover work. The goal is not to rebuild the apartment between every tenant. The goal is a clean, safe, move-in-ready unit in good shape.

Furnished Apartment Turnover: Extra Steps

Furnished apartment turnover needs more than cleaning. You are not only handing over a rental unit; you are handing over furniture, appliances, linens, kitchen items, Wi-Fi, keys, and a ready-to-live space.

Check:

• sofa stains;

• mattress condition;

• chair stability;

• table scratches;

• lamps;

• cookware;

• dishes;

• towels;

• bedding;

• hangers;

• small appliances;

• remote controls;

• Wi-Fi router;

• appliance instructions;

• decorative items;

• key count;

• fob count.

Update the inventory after every tenant. If something is missing, damaged, or replaced, note it.

For furnished units, good inventory is as important as good cleaning. It protects both you and the next tenant.

Update Your Listing Before You Publish Again

Do not relist with old photos if the unit has changed. High-quality photos are essential for marketing the unit after cleaning.

Before publishing the rental listing, update:

• availability date;

• monthly rent;

• included utilities;

• furnished or unfurnished status;

• number of real bedrooms;

• parking;

• storage;

• Wi-Fi;

• pet policy;

• building rules;

• neighbourhood details;

• metro access;

• workspace;

• balcony;

• new photos.

Prospective renters notice when a listing feels outdated. If the walls were repainted, furniture changed, or appliances replaced, show the current version.

A clean, accurate rental listing reduces questions and helps attract better rental applications.

Prepare the New Tenant Move-In

Before the new tenant arrives, prepare the move-in package.

Include:

• signed lease;

• building rules;

• recycling schedule;

• garbage instructions;

• emergency contacts;

• maintenance request process;

• appliance instructions;

• Wi-Fi details;

• key and fob count;

• parking or locker information;

• move-in condition photos;

• contact method for repairs.

If you require the first month’s rent, remember Québec’s rules: the lessor may require the first month’s rent at lease signing, but cannot require additional months in advance. Avoid confusing first month’s rent with move in costs from other provinces or U.S. advice.

Make the first day easy. The unit should be clean, unlocked at the agreed time, warm or cool enough, and ready for daily life.

July 1 Turnover in Montréal: Same-Day Survival Plan

July 1 is Montréal’s pressure test. Cleaners, movers, elevators, landlords, property managers, and tenants are all trying to work around the same clock.

For same day turnover:

• confirm move-out and move-in times in writing;

• book cleaners early;

• prepare supplies in advance;

• have spare batteries and bulbs;

• pre-label new keys;

• keep a repair contact on standby;

• inspect safety first;

• take quick timestamped photos before cleaning;

• clean kitchen and bathroom first;

• do touch ups only where needed;

• communicate delays honestly.

Do not promise a noon move-in if the old tenant may leave at noon. Same day turnover works only when both you and the tenants understand the timing.

If possible, leave a buffer. Even one extra day reduces stress and improves unit readiness.

Common Turnover Mistakes Landlords Make

Common mistakes include:

• waiting until move-out day to book cleaning;

• skipping the move out inspection;

• not taking timestamped photos;

• ignoring odours;

• forgetting window tracks;

• failing to test appliances;

• not replacing smoke detector batteries;

• leaving old fob access active;

• forgetting abandoned property;

• using old listing photos;

• overpromising move-in time;

• doing cosmetic touch ups before safety checks;

• not updating the furnished inventory;

• confusing normal wear with damage;

• using security deposit language that does not fit Québec;

• failing to document repairs.

A thorough move-out inspection protects the owner’s investment. It also helps reduce disputes because both you and the tenant have a clearer record of the unit’s condition.

How Montreal-Aparthotel Fits In

Montreal-Aparthotel is not a property management company. It helps owners list furnished apartments and reach people looking for short- and mid-term stays in Montréal.

That makes turnover especially important. A furnished unit that is clean, documented, photographed, and move-in ready will perform better than a unit with old pictures, missing inventory, vague rules, or unclear availability.

Turnover is the right time to:

• update photos;

• refresh the description;

• check furniture;

• review the inventory;

• test Wi-Fi;

• confirm what is included;

• prepare the apartment for the next tenant.

Owners who have a furnished apartment ready for listing can submit it here:
https://montreal-aparthotel.com/eng/owners

Montreal Apartment Turnover Checklist