Rental Property Move Out: Tenant Move-Out Checklist

There are several important points to take into consideration when you are moving from a rental. The lease is about to expire, and naturally, you'll be concerned about when you'll receive the security deposit.

There's no reason for you to make things more difficult than is necessary, and that's precisely the reason you'll require the checklist for the tenant moving out and a thorough checklist that will assist you, the renter, to get out of the apartment in a seamless manner, which means, without conflict, issues or disagreements in the relationship with your landlord.

Review your lease agreement.

As an owner, you need to be aware of the responsibilities you have when you're about to move out of the property you've rented. That's the reason why among the first things you should be aware of when you are moving out of an apartment is to study carefully the rental agreement to be aware of how you can finish the lease in a timely manner so that the removal process is as smooth as it can be.

Send a notice of a move-out to your landlord.

Similar to the majority of lease agreements, your rental agreement is likely to oblige you to notify your landlord about your plans to leave 30 days before the date of your move. The notice of move-out must be in writing, the so-called tenant's move-out letter and should be delivered to your landlord about five weeks prior to the moving date.

Pay your bills on time.

It is a given that you must pay off all outstanding charges prior to moving from a place of residence. In the first place, you must make sure you pay your bills for utilities -- gas, electricity, water and any additional services such as cable TV, internet, telephone and more. Also, check whether you have any outstanding charges or fees, such as management fees. If you do, pay the charges as well.

Examine the property for damage.

The process of moving out of a property that is rented is a requirement to leave the property in the exact condition it was in when you moved into it. While there, as a tenant, you could have caused property damage that you are not aware of. This is the reason you must look over the property thoroughly for any indications of damage that you could be accountable for. And should you discover anything, you'll be required to repair it.

Make sure the rental property is cleaned.

The most crucial aspect to consider when moving from a rental unit is to make sure that the area is clean prior to leaving. Naturally, there are clauses in the rental contract regarding leaving the rental unit in the best condition possible and another way to get the security deposit back without any issues whatsoever.

Take pictures of the location of your rental.

The most crucial thing you should do when you are moving out of a rental home is to keep a record of the conditions of the rental property to be able to present the proof whenever you need to.

Take photos, lots of pictures of the work you've done to repair as well as after your home or the apartment is thoroughly cleaned. You might have to prove you've completed your fair share in the event of a dispute with the landlord about deposits for security.

Utilize your smartphone to record videos of short length whenever you're in need, as they will strengthen your position should there be disputes later.

Keep all receipts for the services and utilities you've purchased, as well as from the repairs that you've paid for or items you needed to purchase to fix any damages. In addition, the landlord could be willing to pay a portion part of the money you have spent on repairs that are considered to be an improvement that will last for the property.

Make a plan for a move-out inspection.

The list of things to do when you are moving out of a rental home should conclude with you contacting your landlord and requesting that they attend an inspection walk-through of the rental property shortly prior to your departure. This is an essential step of the moving-out process. So, try your best to attend the inspection along with your landlord to resolve any possible discrepancies immediately.