Congratulations on scoring your new apartment!
But before you can settle into your new space, you’re unfortunately going to have to move out of your current one. And if you’re renting, don’t think that means you can just pack up your stuff and leave.
In fact, there are quite a few things you need to take care of before vacating a rental—but not to worry!
We have the seven essential steps you must take in order to move out of your apartment.
1. Read your lease
Before you get packed and ready to move out, you’ll need to notify your current landlord that you won’t be renewing the lease.
Some leases may have 30 or 60-day notice periods; some may be month-to-month that allow you to leave whenever. Regardless, you’ll need to know what the proper process is for your complex, so give yourself a little refresher!
Be sure that you’re notifying your current landlord in the correct manner; it’s possible that you may have to do so in writing, via snail mail.
The last thing you want to deal with is your landlord holding onto your security deposit because of something so simple.
2. Assess the damage
If you’ve lived in your current place for a few years, chances are it has some wear and tear.
Not to worry: most landlords understand that normal wear and tear are unavoidable when you’re living in a space for a certain amount of time. But, if something was damaged while you were living there, like the oven or a door knob, and you failed to notify your landlord when it was broken to be repaired, you could be stuck with the bill after you move out.
Make sure to ask your landlord or your leasing agency what you’re responsible for when it comes to damage to the apartment before you move out. Put together a list of things that need to be taken care of before the move-out. Keep in mind that some leases may require you to repaint, patch holes in the walls from picture frames, and even replace appliances like microwaves that are beyond repair.
3. Give your apartment a deep clean
Moving out of an apartment is all about doing everything you possibly can to get your security deposit back. Giving your place a deep clean is a great way to make sure that your landlord or super can’t withhold the check because the place was left in poor condition.
Don’t forget to take out the trash before leaving and properly remove any items you’re not keeping, but can’t stay at the apartment.
4. Update your renters’ insurance
Many insurance companies will cover your property in a rental up to a certain amount and may also cover things like floods and fire. If you have renters’ insurance, let them know that you’ll be moving to a different address so that they can update your policy. If you’ve acquired any expensive items, like electronics, you may want to update your coverage amount.
Additionally, ask your renters’ insurance provider if they offer moving-day insurance in case any of your items are broken or lost in transit.
5. Deal with your change of address
Starting the change of address process early—before you have completely moved out—is a smart idea.
You can head to your post office and schedule a mail hold or forward starting on the date that you move. Notify banks, credit card companies, and anyone else that regularly sends you mail at least a week before your moving date (two weeks if possible).
This way, you can prevent any items getting lost on their way to you.
6. Call your utilities services
Moving out means you need to close out your cable, gas, electric and water accounts. Notify the companies that you are moving and ask them to send any outstanding balances to you at your new address (or via email).
If you’ll be using the same company when you move to your new place, simply let them know that you’re moving. Some companies, like gas and electric companies, may need you to close your old account and open a new one; but cable and Wi-Fi companies will likely let you transfer service.
7. Now, it’s time to pack!
Last, but certainly not least, you need to start packing! Make sure you check the top and bottom of all closets and storage areas, so you don’t leave anything behind. (That deep clean should have uncovered whatever you’ve been missing!)
And, start early—don’t leave all your packing to the last minute or else you might not even make it to your new space.
When you’re ready to schedule the big move, give us a call here at Dowell’s at 250-361-9866. We have a professional moving company in Victoria BC that will get you and your belongings to your new place with ease!