Packing up and moving out of an apartment is actually a pretty big job. If you think choosing a home is challenging, the moving out process can very much be the same. In fact, it can be downright stressful, especially if you are not prepared.
Whether it’s your first time to move or the tenth time, there are things that you must take note of to ensure that the process is as stress-free as possible. Here is some advice on what to do when moving out of your rental space.
Gather necessary documents
To ensure that you will be able to move out of your rental space without any hassle, you will need to gather all the documents that are relevant to your tenancy. This will help guide you through the proper tenancy termination process and make sure you have a case if your landlord disputes anything or makes a claim on your deposit.
These are the key documents that you will need:
- Tenancy agreement, which should include renewal terms
- Security deposit documents
- Any agreement in writing that may not have been included in the original tenancy agreement
- Receipts of maintenance and home improvement projects that you paid for
- Move-in inventory document
- Content insurance, if applicable
Additionally, you will need to terminate services and subscriptions that are associated with your current address. You can decide whether you want them transferred or you’d rather find a more appropriate deal in your new residence.
Examine your home for any damages
The Home Specialists at Fair Cash Deal advice: “You must be vigilant and inspect and examine your home before bringing in the landlord or agents. This will certainly save you time, and it will save you money in the long-run, too.”
It goes without saying that your landlord will need you to turn over your unit in an acceptable condition if you want a smooth transition without any extra costs.
Refer to your move-in inventory to check for any notable damages during your stay. Carefully inspect which damages are deductible from your security deposit and which ones are your landlord’s responsibility.
Clean and declutter!
To prepare for your big move, you might want to start cleaning up your things and getting rid of those that you no longer need. (Or will no longer fit in your new apartment!) For example, it helps to start with your wardrobe. The rule is, you haven’t worn an item in 6 months, it’s time to let it go. The goal is to carry as little stuff as possible to make moving easier.
Cleaning your house can be an overwhelming process, so it’s best to do it on a per-area basis. Allot enough time for the clean-up so you’re not panicking when moving day finally comes.
According to some professional cleaners, “when you move into your new home, it is generally much better to start with a clean slate. Only take the things you need and love and your home will really feel like a nice fresh start.”
Give your landlord the required notice (at least 30 days)
According to globalpropertyguide.com, some leases state that you must hand-deliver your lease termination letter to your landlord. Others may want it sent through certified mail. Check your lease and state laws to find out the proper procedures in your area. Make sure that you keep a copy for yourself, and that in the letter you remind your landlord that you need your security deposit refunded. Again, take a look at your lease and state laws, because one (or both!) may say that you must give more than 30 days’ notice when moving out.
Consider your change of address
Next, you will have to let the following companies know that you are changing address and ask them to redirect your mail to your new address for the date you move:
- Letting agent
- Local councils
- Council tax
- Electricity, gas, and water suppliers
- Landline, internet, mobile phone, and television providers
- Employers or schools
- Credit card and insurance companies and your bank
Again, contact them ahead of time to ensure that you wouldn’t have to go through any hassle that could have been avoidable, to begin with.
Organize moving out processes
This step involves all the final formalities of moving out of your rental apartment.
You will have to schedule the final inspection for the property and contact trusted movers (or friends and family) to help move your things. Also schedule your move-out and move-in days, making sure that they overlap. This will give you ample time to move your things between the two properties, and make sure you leave your rental in tip-top condition.
