Apartment Moving Out Checklist

Moving out of an apartment can be a stressful process, especially when you want to make sure you get your security deposit back. A tenant needs to ensure smooth move-out and increase the likelihood of a full security deposit refund while moving out & a move-out checklist is one of the best way to do it better.

A move-out checklist helps organize the process, making sure that all necessary steps are completed before leaving the apartment. It minimizes issues with landlords, ensures compliance with lease terms, and can be crucial for a smooth transition.

The Essential To-Do List Before Moving Out

Give Proper Notice: Check your lease agreement to see how much notice you’re required to give your landlord. Notify them in writing as required, often 30 days in advance.
Know Your Payments: Review any outstanding rent or maintenance fees to avoid deductions from your deposit.
Contact Your Renter’s Insurance Carrier: Inform your insurance provider of your move-out date and make arrangements for insurance at your new place, if needed.
Call Your Utility Providers: Schedule a disconnect or transfer of your utilities, including electricity, water, internet, and gas, to avoid extra charges.
Fix Everything: Complete any necessary repairs, such as fixing nail holes, squeaky doors, or broken blinds. Check with your landlord if needed, as this can prevent deductions.
Start Cleaning: Plan a thorough cleaning. This includes every room, fixture, and appliance to leave the apartment in pristine condition.
Take Pictures: Document the apartment’s condition on move-out day with photos. This serves as evidence in case of any disputes over damages.
Ask About the Community’s Moving Policy: Confirm any specific moving policies like elevator use, parking, or time restrictions.
Schedule a Walk-Through: Arrange a final walk-through with your landlord or property manager. This helps address any potential issues right away.
Change Your Address: Update your address with important services, such as banks, post office, and subscriptions.
Gather Your Keys: Collect all apartment keys, mailbox keys, and any other provided access cards or fobs.

Move-Out Cleaning Checklist

Kitchen

Countertops & Cabinets: Clean and empty all cabinets, drawers, and countertops.
Appliances: Scrub the refrigerator, oven, microwave, and other appliances. Remove all food items.
Sink & Faucet: Descale, scrub, and ensure no leaks.
Floors: Sweep and mop thoroughly.

Bedroom

Closets: Empty and dust or vacuum shelves.
Walls & Baseboards: Clean any marks and touch up paint if necessary.
Windows: Wipe down windows, frames, and sills.

Bathroom

Toilet, Sink, and Shower: Deep clean all fixtures. Remove any hard water stains and mold.
Mirrors and Counters: Polish mirrors and clean counters.
Cabinets and Drawers: Empty and wipe clean.

Living Room

Furniture: If furnished, dust and vacuum the provided furniture.
Floors: Vacuum carpets or mop hardwood floors.
Lighting Fixtures and Fans: Dust thoroughly to remove accumulated dirt.

Packing and Inventory Essentials

Create a Home Inventory: List all items that you will be taking with you. This helps you keep track of belongings and makes moving day easier.

Set a Moving Budget: Decide on expenses, including packing materials, moving truck rentals, and cleaning supplies.

Begin Packing Early: Start with non-essentials and pack systematically to avoid last-minute rushes.

Donation, Selling, and Disposal of Unwanted Items

Donate or Sell Items You Don’t Need: Donate items like clothes, books, or small furniture to charities or sell them online. This helps lighten your load and minimizes what you need to move.

Prepare Essential Kits and Go-Bags

Moving Day Go-Bag: Pack essentials like toiletries, a change of clothes, snacks, and important documents in a separate bag. This keeps necessary items handy on moving day.
Cleaning Essentials Kit: basic cleaning kit with supplies like sponges, sprays, and garbage bags helps with last-minute cleaning needs.
First-Aid Kit Essentials: Keep a small first-aid kit accessible in case of any minor injuries during the moving process.

Scheduling Helpers and Taking Time Off Work

Schedule Moving Help: Arrange for friends, family, or professional movers to help with heavy lifting and transport.
Take Time Off Work if Necessary: Moving can be time-intensive, so consider taking a day or two off to manage everything without stress.

Final Checks and Walkthrough

Update Your Information: Notify relevant services and companies about your move to avoid missed bills or notices.
Take One Last Walkthrough: Ensure everything is in good shape and confirm that nothing is left behind.