Tuscaloosa's student rental market turns over every August. Landlords who skip the pre-lease punch list lose 2–3 weeks of rent on early lease-break complaints — and that's before security-deposit disputes.
The 12 items: HVAC filter, smoke alarm batteries, all door locks rekeyed, dishwasher gasket, refrigerator coils, garbage disposal, all caulking in baths, exhaust fan covers, screen doors, blinds, every interior door latch, and exterior weather-stripping.
Total cost when bundled: $380–$520 with a single handyman over one full day. Booking 8+ items individually pushes the same work to $900+.
Tuscaloosa pros on HandyMandyMan offer a flat 'turnover bundle' specifically for this — book it 2 weeks before your lease start date and you'll have receipts ready for any deposit dispute later.