Resource Guide for Relocators

The Basics

Moving out can be an exciting or stressful time in your life. Having a checklist could ease your stress. Whether you are relocating for pleasure, business or both it may feel impossible to remember everything.

Moving out

Cleaning: Remove the grease and grime from your stove, oven and microwave. Defrost the refrigerator. Clean the sinks in both the kitchen and bathrooms. Scrub the toilet, tub and shower walls to remove any soap/mold build up. Make sure to remove all items from shelves, storage and medicine cabinets. Remove any plants that you may have had. Vacuum rugs. Spraying an air freshening product such as Febreze may help if you've smoked. Clean the fireplace and remove any logs left. Sweep the stairs.

Tidying Up-

If the place you last had was furnished, make the bed and ensure all sofa cushions are back in place. Check for any loose change in between the cushions. Check that all faucets aren't dripping. Don't forget the washer and dryer along with the oven and or microwave having anything in them. Have a patio? Clean it up and pick up any items before moving out. Example: Cigarette butts, cups, matches...

Utilities: Disconnect your phone, cable, electric, gas, water, magazine and newspaper subscriptions, bank accounts and trash pick up.

Moving in-

The inspection- Have the landlord take you through a tour of the property. Pick up a condition report and take it with you through the tour. Inspect the ceilings, walls, windows, floors, carpets, appliances and fixtures. Are there any stains, broken applications, cracks in the tile and or fixtures? Don't overlook this. Inform your landlord so you won't be blamed if you move out. Get it in writing to make sure.

Test- Test the heat and AC to ensure they are working properly.

Research before moving-

1. Renters Insurance

2. Prices for utilities (prices subjected to change at anytime)

3. A finance back up plan. (Ensure that you have money for items that you may have

forgotten but can't live without.)

4. Security/safety (Is there a security system in your new place? Limited access on the property?)