The Master Check-In Guide: Securing Your Shanghai Apartment (2026)
The Master Check-In Guide: Securing Your Shanghai Apartment in 2026.
The check-in day is more than just getting your keys—it’s the exact moment you legally establish the condition of your new home. At Here Housing & Coliving, we believe a meticulous check-in is the absolute best way to ensure a stress-free move-out and a full deposit return a year later.
Scroll through our interactive, step-by-step guide to executing a flawless property handover in Shanghai.
Coordinate with Your Here Specialist
Your dedicated Here agent will coordinate directly with the landlord to schedule the handover. We strongly recommend scheduling this during daylight hours so you can clearly inspect the property's condition and ensure all lighting and utilities are visible.
The Comprehensive Walkthrough
Never rush this step. Together with your Here agent and the landlord, conduct a meticulous room-by-room inspection.
- Focus areas: Check for wall scuffs, the condition of the flooring, and the functionality of all windows and door locks.
- Support: Our local team will be by your side to translate and ensure every minor defect is acknowledged by the landlord.
Inventory & Condition Report
The landlord will provide a formal inventory list of all furniture, appliances, and fixtures.
- Accuracy is Key: Ensure the brand and condition of high-value items (like the fridge, washing machine, and TV) are accurately documented.
- Legal Protection: Both parties must sign and date this report. This document is your primary protection for the return of your security deposit.
Photographic & Video Evidence
While the written report is vital, visual evidence is undeniable in China.
- Action: Take high-resolution photos of any pre-existing scratches, mattress stains, or appliance wear.
- Pro Tip: Record a continuous, quick video walkthrough of the entire apartment. Your Here agent will help you archive these in our system for future reference.
Secure Key Handover
Confirm you have received the full, functional set of keys and access cards. This includes:
- Building entrance and elevator fobs.
- Main apartment door keys.
- Mailbox and room-specific keys.
- Digital locks: Ensure digital codes are reset to a private code immediately during the walkthrough.
Utility Verification & Meter Readings
Avoid paying for the previous tenant's usage by recording the exact starting point.
- Meter Readings: Document and photograph the current numbers for water, electricity, and gas.
- Functionality Check: Test the AC units (both heating and cooling), water heater, and kitchen appliances. We will assist you in binding your utility accounts on Alipay or WeChat Pay.
Essential Contact Exchange
We ensure you have the direct contact details for the property manager (Bao'an) or the landlord. Effective communication and knowing exactly who to call is the secret to getting repairs done quickly in Shanghai.
Final Lease Review
Review the critical clauses one last time before the landlord leaves: maintenance responsibilities, repair financial thresholds (e.g., who pays for a lightbulb vs. a broken AC compressor), and the formal notice period for move-out.
Safety & Emergency Orientation
Locate the fire extinguishers, emergency exits, and circuit breakers. Whether you are in a new high-rise in Pudong or a historic lane house in the FFC, knowing exactly where your "fuse box" is located can save a lot of trouble during a power surge.
The "Here" Final Approval
Before the landlord leaves, our team performs a final scan to ensure the apartment is clean, secure, and fully ready for your first night.
Welcome to Your New Home.
At Here Coliving & Housing, we don't just find you a flat; we expertly manage the transition so you can start enjoying Shanghai immediately.
