Thanks to a lot of moving, I am well aware of how annoying and crazy moving can be.  Moving can be a common activity for some apartment renters.  However, for those who don’t move often, here is a checklist of some things you want to make sure you do before the move.

1. Keep a record of everything when you move in and another when you move out.  Any dents, damage, marks, etc should be recorded when you move in so that you won’t be responsible for them when you leave.  A record when you move out will ensure that you will not be held responsible by the complex if damage happens after you move.  Taking photographs when you move is also a good idea.
2. Offer to fix anything or clean anything yourself so you don’t have to pay for the complex to do it. This is generally a cheaper option.  Fix any holes with spackle or another type of hole filler.  Wash the walls, ceilings, and floors to get up any scraps or dirt that may have gathered.  You can also try using a magic eraser to remove scuffs, but make sure to test this first to ensure you don’t pull off any paint from the walls.  Also, replace any broken blinds and such that apartment came furnished with. If you’re not comfortable doing this, hire a professional to avoid incurring EXTRA costs due to a shoddy job.
3. Clean clean clean! Make sure you don’t forget to clean the appliances, sinks, balcony or patio, living rooms, dens, and bedrooms.  Take all of the garbage to the curb or dumpster so it’s not sitting in the apartment stinking up the place!
4. Get your bills in order. Make sure that the utility companies that you use know that you will no longer be at your current residence and set them up at your new living space.  It’s a good idea to note the meter readings for electricity or other utilities as necessary.  Also, don’t forget to make the change of address at the post office.
5. Make sure you take everything. Do not leave things that you don’t want any more at your apartment.  Throw them out or take them with you.  It’s a good idea to organize everything two weeks or more prior so you’re not overwhelmed on moving day.
6. Hire the movers or ask friends and family to help. Make sure you give them the correct day, the time you would like them there, and where your new pad is.  This will ensure a smooth move.
7. Hand in the keys and get your deposit back!

Related posts:

1. Top 5 Long-Distance Moving Tips
2. 10 Things to Discuss BEFORE Signing a Lease with a New Roommate
3. Making the Right Moving Decision
4. Tricks of the Trade: Get that Security Deposit back!
5. Cohabitation: Moving In Together BEFORE Tying the Knot

Tags: Apartment, apartment moving, How to, moving, moving checklist, security deposit