Did you know that over 10% of the United States population moves each year? That’s more than 32 million people prepping, packing, hauling, and unpacking.
But moving being such a common occurrence doesn’t make it any less stressful, which is even more true if you’re a renter. Depending on the size of the security deposit you were charged upon move-in, you could be seriously depending on getting it back.
If you’re preparing to move out of an apartment or rental home for the first time, we’ve got you covered! Listed below is a move out checklist that will not only make moving far less stressful but will also ensure that your security deposit is returned to you.
Start Your To-Do List
A great deal goes into moving out of your current home and into a new one, oftentimes more than you anticipated. This is why it’s important to start a master to-do list early. Keep this list on your phone or in a planner that travels with you. That way, you’ll be able to add to it any time you think of something new.
The first thing to do is to take a look at that inspection checklist you received upon move-in. If you don’t have the one your landlord gave you, there are tons of sample checklists online, you should be able to find one that matches closely with your home.
Look over this checklist and compare it to your home. Is there anything that could use a scrub? Any small repairs that need to be made? Add them to your to-do list.
Pack and Prep
The most obvious step in your tenant move out checklist is to pack your belongings. If you can’t move the boxes into storage or your new home, deep clean one room in your home and move all of the boxes into it. In doing so, you won’t be stepping around boxes and junk while you’re trying to get through your move out cleaning checklist.
Before you move, you’ll also need to submit a change of address to any utility companies and notify your bank, as well as any friends and family that will need the new information. The steps you need to take will depend on your specific situation, but here’s a list of some of the most common steps to take during moving prep:
- Make an inventory of your belongings
- Budget your moving expenses
- Choose a moving company
- Collect boxes
- Label moving boxes for each room
- Gather important documents
- Notify your renter’s insurance company
- Notify your cable and internet company
- Update voter registration
- Cancel any services that won’t transfer
- Change your address with your bank
- Notify your work (for payroll purposes)
- Have mail forwarded
- Transfer utilities
- Update your driver’s license
- Notify your auto insurance company
- Update your car registration
Choose Your Cleaning Method
One of the most important steps in your rental move out checklist is to complete a deep clean of your entire home. As we mentioned above, it’s a good idea to clear as much space as possible. Trying to clean around your belongings will not only be more difficult but will result in a much less thorough clean.
Now, you have two options with this step. You can clean your home yourself (or with a few willing friends), or you can hire a professional. If you’re short on time or worried that you’ll be unable to clean as well as you probably should, go the professional route.
Companies such as SYK Cleaning offer full-service cleaning that will be completed in less than a day. If you can fit it into your budget, this will save you time and cut down on the amount of hassle you have to deal with to complete your move.
If You’re Cleaning on Your Own
If you do decide to tackle the task of cleaning your home without the help of a professional, remember that the key phrase here is “deep clean”. In order to get your full security deposit back, your home needs to be free from damage and spotless.
Make a separate list for cleaning if your master to-do list is getting a bit out of control. Start your move out cleaning checklist by making a list of every room in your home, then fill in the details of each space.
Once again, your exact list will vary depending on the size, layout, and condition of your rental home, but the following steps are a good starting point.
- Remove and nails or tacks from the walls
- Fill holes with putty and paint
- Wipe down walls, light switches, and doors
- Sweep, mop, and vacuum all floors
- Remove any visible carpet stains
- Dust all rooms (windowsills, ceiling corners, etc)
- Scrub all bathrooms (toilet, shower, tub, sinks, mirrors)
- Bleach any mildew build-up on the grout
- Vacuum out drawers and cabinets
- Clean out all kitchen appliances
- Replace drip pans
- Wipe down all surfaces
- Disinfect and polish the kitchen sink
A deep clean will take time, but if you put on some music, grab some snacks, and make a day out of it, it can actually be a great stress-reliever.
Use This Move Out Checklist to Get Your Security Deposit
Moving is expensive enough without the threat of losing your security deposit. By following this move out checklist, you can help to ensure that you get your deposit back in full.
Cleaning and repairing any damages, no matter how minimal, before you do your final walkthrough with your landlord is essential. You might have the option to be absent for this walkthrough, but be there in person if you can. You’ll be able to dispute any unfair charges before they’re finalized.
Looking for more tips and tricks for moving like a pro? Be sure to check out our blog!