Home > Storage Resources > Apartment Move-Out Checklist

Apartment Move-Out Checklist

Moving out of an apartment can be both exciting and overwhelming. To ensure a smooth transition and maximize your chances of getting your security deposit back, follow this comprehensive checklist:

Two Months in Advance

1. Check Your Finances
   • Ensure you have the funds to support your move.
   • Aim to have three to six months’ worth of savings for emergencies.
2. Review Your Lease
   • Understand the move-out guidelines, including notice periods and responsibilities.
3. Assess and Repair Damages
   • List areas that need repair before the landlord’s final inspection.
   • Repair and patch up walls, and coordinate with the landlord for necessary maintenance.

One Month in Advance

1. Give Written Notice
   • Provide a written notice to your landlord or leasing company with your move-out date.
2. Plan Your Move
   • Decide whether to move with friends or hire a moving company.
   • Gather essential moving supplies like boxes, moving blankets, and cleaning supplies.
3. Cancel or Transfer Renters Insurance
   • Contact your insurance company to transfer your policy to your new address.

Three Weeks in Advance

1. Declutter and Pack
   • Start purging unnecessary items and organizing what you plan to keep.
   • Hold a garage sale or donate items to charity.
2. Notify Utility Companies
   • Arrange for utility services to be turned off at your current apartment and on at your new apartment.
3. Submit Change of Address
   • Submit a Change of Address form to the USPS and notify banks, employers, and others.
4. Prepare for Moving Day
   • Request time off work and arrange transportation for pets.

Two Weeks in Advance

1. Confirm Moving Day Plans
   • Confirm details with your moving company and any other essential reservations.
2. Coordinate with Your Landlord
   • Discuss parking arrangements for moving trucks and access to elevators.

One Week in Advance

1. Clean and Repair
   • Begin cleaning and repairing your apartment. Move labeled boxes to a central location.
2. Final Walkthrough with Landlord
   • Schedule and attend a walkthrough with your landlord to address any issues.
3. Security Deposit Arrangements
   • Confirm details about the return of your security deposit and any deductions.

Moving Day

1. Final Preparations
   • Wake up early, have a good breakfast, and tackle last-minute tasks like taking out the trash and spot-cleaning.
2. Final Walkthrough and Key Return
   • Conduct a final walkthrough to ensure all damage is remedied and everything is removed. Return the keys to your landlord.

Detailed Cleaning and Repairs

A Helpful Repair and Moving Out Cleaning Checklist

• Address Every Room: Spend time on each area to avoid neglecting any part.
• Don’t Forget About the Appliances:
  • Microwave: Place a bowl of water in the microwave, heat for 5 minutes, and let it sit for another 5 to loosen grime. Wipe clean with a cloth. Add lemon for deodorizing.
  • Refrigerator: Soak drawers in warm soapy water. Scrub the inside with warm water and dishwashing soap. Use baking soda for stubborn stains.
• Fill Any Wall Holes: Fill holes left by nails or decorations to blend with the wall.
• Scrub the Floors: Vacuum and sweep all floors. Use a carpet cleaner for stained areas.

Let a Self Storage Unit Help with Your Move

Renting a self-storage unit can ease the moving process by allowing you to move non-essential items ahead of time. This minimizes stress on moving day. Store Here offers storage facilities nationwide. Reserve your storage unit today!

By following this checklist and thoroughly cleaning your apartment, you’ll increase your chances of getting your full security deposit back and ensure a smooth move to your new home.