11 Items to Do Before Moving into a New Apartment

1. Get in Touch with Your Current Landlord

Make sure you know your landlord’s policy about giving move-out notice. Some places require 30 days’ notice if you are moving out, and some require 60 days’ notice. Make sure you’re informed of your landlord’s policy ahead of time and don’t forget to reach out to them to give notice.

2. Reach out to Your New Landlord

Communicate with your new landlord about what day you’ll be moving in and ask these questions: - When should I pick up my keys? - Where should the moving truck park? - Are there elevators? (If you’re not on the first floor) - Do I need to complete a moving checklist and return it by a specific date? - How and when do I pay the first month’s rent?

3. Get Renters Insurance

It may seem like one more thing to pay for, but having insurance as a renter is essential. Your landlord may even require it in your lease. Renters insurance protects your stuff from natural disasters, fires, water damage, theft, etc. Your policy will insure you up to a certain amount, covering damage to your belongings. Renter’s insurance can be pretty affordable and is worth it.

4. Put Utilities in Your Name

Time to set up your utilities! Your lease will mention which utilities are your responsibility. Many rental companies cover water and trash. Usually, you are responsible for paying for gas, electricity, and internet.

5. Change Your Address

Don’t forget to forward your mail to your new address through USPS and change your address with your bank, credit card company, doctor’s office, and any subscriptions services you have. Also, notify friends and family of your new address, so all the Christmas cards, invites, and fun mail get to the right place.

6. Research Your New Area

If time allows, take a day or two to explore your new neighborhood and get acquainted with the surroundings. Search for grocery stores and shops in your area to see which ones you like best. Go gym shopping if you need a new gym, and explore the local restaurants and transportation options. If you’re moving to an entirely new area, an exciting adventure awaits.

7. Shop for Décor and Furniture

Maybe you are bringing all your furniture from your old rental, or perhaps this is your first apartment, and you need to fill it with your style. Shopping for furniture and decorations can be tedious as you figure out what style suits your place best. Take your time, don’t rush the shopping, and only buy pieces you love.

8. Think about Storage

Maybe you’re downsizing, or perhaps this apartment is temporary while you wait for your house to be built. If your apartment cannot store all your things, then consider renting a storage unit. Moving companies with temporary storage can help you make the proper arrangements. Getting a storage unit ahead of time can save a lot of stress, so you don’t have large items everywhere with anywhere to put them.

9. Get Ahead on Your Packing

The key to minimizing stress is starting your packing early. Make a packing schedule and stick to it. Start with the items you will not need daily, including decorations, seasonal clothing, books, movies, kitchenware you don’t need, etc.

10. Hire a Professional Moving company

Most people who have used a moving company agree they are worth the cost. They will help ensure your move goes smoothly, and most moving companies offer packing and moving services.

11. Clean Your Current Apartment

We can all agree that getting your security deposit back is the goal. Your landlord will most likely give you a cleaning checklist and expect everything to get done in order to get your cleaning deposit back. Other factors that may affect your security deposit include holes in the wall or any damage to the apartment. Make sure your place is in tip-top shape before giving those keys back.

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