Make Good Final Inspection: How to Run the Landlord Walk-Through

The make good work is done, but the handback isn’t finished until the landlord has inspected the premises. A walk-through that starts without evidence turns into an argument about what was and wasn’t agreed. This guide covers what to prepare and how to run the inspection so any issues can be closed out quickly.

For the full process, see A1’s warehouse make good checklist.

Before the inspection: build your handover pack

Collect these in one folder, printed or shared digitally:

• The lease clauses on returning the premises.
• The original condition report, so each item can be compared with its starting condition.
• An itemised scope of works, with removals, repairs, cleaning and reinstatement as separate lines.
• Dated photographs of each completed area, labelled by location.
• Racking removal records: which sections were removed, where anchors were extracted or ground flush, and how holes were filled.
• Compliance and completion documents from your contractors.

For racking, our guide to pallet racking removal explains what the floor work involves.

Do a pre-inspection of your own

Walk the premises before the landlord does, with your scope in hand.

• Tick off every item against the lease and condition report.
• Check floors for anchor holes, surface damage and debris. A filled hole doesn’t address a crack beside it.
• Check walls, painted surfaces and ceilings for patches that still show.
• Look for tenant items left behind.
• Photograph anything you find and fix it first.

Running the walk-through

• Book it in writing. Agree the date, time and who will attend.
• Walk the site together. A joint inspection avoids surprises later.
• Go area by area. Use your scope as the script.
• Note disagreements on the spot. If the landlord wants a full repaint but your scope covered damaged sections, record the request and who raised it.
• Don’t agree to new work verbally. Anything beyond the agreed scope should be confirmed in writing.

Close out the defects list

If the landlord raises items:

1. Write each one down with its location and a photo.
2. Check it against the lease and condition report.
3. Agree what will be done, by whom and by when.
4. Complete the work and photograph it.
5. Send the updated record and ask for written confirmation.

Keep every email and record together. A clear trail makes it easier to show what was agreed. For wear and tear questions, see fair wear and tear in Victorian commercial leases.

When it’s time to talk to a specialist

If the landlord’s expectations are bigger than your scope, negotiating the make good clause may help. A1 Precision Solutions provides end-of-lease make good services and can document the completed work. Contact A1 Precision Solutions to discuss your handback.

Frequently asked questions

What should I bring to the make good final inspection?

The lease clauses, the original condition report, your itemised scope, dated photos and contractor records.

Can the landlord ask for extra work at the inspection?

They can ask. Record the request, check it against the lease and confirm any agreed change in writing.

What if the landlord finds defects?

List each one with a location and photo, agree who fixes it and when, then send updated photos once it’s done.