If you are moving out of your rental because you are finally graduating, looking for a better apartment, or moving on to buy a new house, you need to make sure you end your tenancy in the best way possible. Whatever your reason for moving out is, you should always end your rental period while you are on good terms with your landlord. So if you are moving out, here are some simple rules for you to follow:
Give your landlord a notice
Most rental contracts would require the tenant to notify the owner at least a month prior to leaving the property. That’s why you should make sure that you notify the property owner in writing, as soon as possible, and at least 5 weeks ahead of your planned moving-out date. In case you want to move out before your lease expires, you should notify the owner in order to cancel your lease. Your written notice to move out should include the following: the date, landlord’s name, the property’s detailed address, moving-out date, a request to return your security deposit, and your new address, as well as your signature.
A good idea is to inform your landlord of your new address and contact information for future communications, no matter where you live. If you’re looking for a new rental place in London, experts here have compiled a detailed guide on the prices of London’s rental properties, sorted out by their proximity to the tube lines. However, be prepared for high costs with a rising doubt due to the uncertainty that Brexit brings.
Inform your service providers
Make sure that you update all of your service providers that you are moving out, in order to settle any pending payments and make final meter readings. Also, you should arrange that all the services would be disconnected one day after you move out. For example, make sure that you inform your internet service provider to disconnect the Wi-Fi service one day after you move out in order to avoid any unnecessary expenses that could come up. However, make sure to double-check with your landlord whether they want the services disconnected or not. Moreover, a good idea is to inform your service providers of your new address, in case you still need their services when you move into your new apartment.
Inspect the apartment for any damage
You are expected to leave the rental in good condition; the same condition as it was when you first moved in. You will need to inspect everything in your apartment and make sure nothing is damaged, for example, the walls, floors, electric appliances, kitchen utensils, lighting fixtures, devices, and all other equipment. You’ll need to repair any damage, if found, and keep the receipts of those repairs.
Move out your stuff too!
Sometimes, landlords can charge you extra costs if they find some of your belongings left behind, so make sure you move out all your possessions before moving out. Remember to take all the personal belongings, devices, cables, chargers, doormats, rugs, and kitchen utensils. Basically, you should take out everything that wasn’t there when you first moved in.
Schedule a deep clean
Make sure you leave the apartment as clean as when you first moved in, or even cleaner. Check the agreement to see if there are any specific cleaning requirements before leaving the property and abide by those requirements. However, here is a checklist of what you should be cleaning besides keeping the place tidy:
- Disinfect floors and baseboards
- Sanitize all surfaces
- Clean all devices, utensils, and equipment
- Wash the pillowcases and bedsheets
- Clean the carpets, rugs, and mats
- Wash drapes, curtains, and blinds
- Clean inside the cupboards, drawers, etc.
- Remove the dust off all surfaces and off the furniture
This way, you will ensure that you won’t face any potential issues with your landlord, and you will be able to get your security deposit back without any problems.
Arrange a final inspection
Finally, schedule a final inspection with your landlord in order to check the rental unit for any damage or extra fees he could charge you. Be present when he is there, document the condition of the property, and discuss if he has any concerns. After everything is settled, you can request your tenancy deposit back.
After all, when you are moving out to a new place, you will probably be excited about your upcoming experience at a brand new place alongside new neighbors, so you want the move-out to go as quickly and smoothly as possible without any hassle or problems. So make sure you follow the above-mentioned steps, and they will guarantee you a smooth transition and a successful relocation. Now it is time for a housewarming party in your new place!
