Moving out instructions
- Home
- Moving out instructions
Moving out of a rental property requires careful planning and execution to ensure a smooth transition, avoid unnecessary costs, and get your security deposit back. Here’s a step-by-step guide for moving out of a rental property:
1. Notify Your Landlord:
- Review your lease agreement for the notice period required (typically 30-60 days).
- Provide a written notice of your intent to move out by the agreed date.
2. Understand Move-out Conditions:
- Re-read your lease to understand any move-out conditions or requirements the landlord has specified.
3. Plan Your Move:
- Schedule a moving company or rent a moving truck, if necessary.
- Begin packing well in advance. Consider decluttering and donating or selling items you no longer need.
4. Repair and Clean:
- Patch up holes from hanging pictures or shelves.
- Repair any damages for which you’re responsible.
- Thoroughly clean the property, including carpets, walls, windows, appliances, and bathrooms.
5. Utility Disconnection:
- Schedule disconnections or transfers for utilities such as water, electricity, gas, and internet. Ensure they’re aligned with your move-out date.
6. Conduct a Final Walk-through:
- Ideally, do this with your landlord or property manager.
- Go through each room and discuss any potential issues.
- Use the move-in inspection report (if you have one) as a reference to ensure the property is in the agreed-upon condition.
- Take photos or videos during the walk-through as evidence of the property’s condition upon move-out.
7. Return Keys and Property Items:
- Give back all keys, remotes, parking passes, or any other items belonging to the rental property.
8. Provide a Forwarding Address:
- This is essential for your landlord to return your security deposit or forward any mail.
- You can also set up mail forwarding with the post office.
9. Security Deposit:
- Ask for an itemized list of any deductions made from your security deposit.
- In Texas, landlords typically have 30 days to return the deposit or provide a written notice of any deductions, unless otherwise specified in the lease.
10. Cancel Renters Insurance:
- Notify your insurance company of your move-out date to stop coverage or transfer it to your new address.
11. Leave a Review or Testimonial:
- If you had a positive experience, consider leaving a review for the landlord or property. This can be helpful for future tenants.
12. Stay Organized:
- Keep a folder with essential move-out documents, including your written notice, the final walk-through checklist, and communications related to your security deposit.
13. Move Out:
- Ensure you take all your belongings and leave nothing behind.
- Lock up the property securely.
14. Notify Important Parties of Your New Address:
- This includes banks, credit card companies, subscription services, family, and friends.
Moving out of a rental property can be a smooth process when planned well in advance. Ensure you’re clear on your responsibilities, maintain open communication with your landlord, and leave the property in good condition to facilitate a hassle-free transition.