Tenant checklist for moving into your new rental home

Key takeaways

• Handle utilities, renter's insurance and condition documentation before you move anything into the unit.
• Locate all safety essentials on move-in day before you start unpacking.
• Unpack everything before you buy anything for the new place.

The walk-through is done and the lease is signed. Now it's time to move in.

There’s a lot to get done before you’re finally settled into your new home. Here's a guide to help you make the transition easier.

Call the water, electric and gas companies about a week before your move-in date. Schedule service to start the day before you move so you have running water, working lights and climate control while you unload.

Not sure who to call? Your leasing office or landlord can provide contact information for each provider.

When you call, ask:

• What is the typical monthly cost for your unit size and number of occupants
  
• Whether the company offers a balanced billing plan to spread costs evenly across peak heating and cooling months

For internet, ask your landlord or property manager if they have preferred providers, then contact those companies for quotes. Be prepared to pay deposits for each service.

Many leases require it, and even when they don't, a policy protects your belongings against theft, fire and water damage. Coverage is relatively inexpensive, often between $15 and $30 per month, and can be set up online in minutes. Have your policy active before move-in day.

Before you bring anything inside, take photos and videos of every room. Capture any existing damage: scuffed walls, stained carpet, chipped countertops, scratched flooring and appliance dents. Send copies to your landlord or property manager in writing. This record protects your security deposit when you move out.

Set up mail forwarding through the post office at least a week before you move. Then update your address with:

• Your bank and credit card companies
  
• Your employer and insurance providers
  
• The local department of motor vehicles (required by law in most states within a set timeframe)
  
• Subscriptions, online retailers and any recurring deliveries

Ask your landlord how many sets are provided and whether you're allowed to make copies. Know the lockout procedure before you need it.

The landlord likely cleaned after the last tenant left, but the unit has probably been shown multiple times since then. A deep clean while the space is empty is easier and worth the effort.

A few priorities:

• Swap out toilet seats if the landlord didn't
  
• Vacuum carpets and scrub kitchen counters
  
• Wash inside cabinets and line shelves with contact paper
  
• Wipe down areas that get overlooked: the top of the fridge, the range hood, doorknobs, light switches and baseboards

Before you start unpacking, find and check the following:

• Circuit breaker panel. Know where it is and which breaker controls each room
  
• Water shutoff valve. Learn how to turn it off in case of a leak
  
• Fire extinguisher. Confirm one is present and that it hasn't expired
  
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Test each one and replace batteries if needed
  
• Locks. Make sure all entry doors and windows lock properly. Report any issues to your landlord immediately

Get these details squared away during your first day or two:

• Parking. Pick up any required permits, confirm your assigned spot and find out where guests can park
  
• Trash and recycling. Learn pickup days, bin locations and any sorting requirements
  
• Quiet hours. Check your lease or community guidelines
  
• Package delivery. Find out if the building has a secure area, locker system or specific instructions

Ask your landlord about online portals, autopay options or preferred payment methods. Setting up autopay early helps you avoid a missed payment in the first month when everything else is competing for your attention.

Keep these numbers somewhere easy to find:

• Landlord or property manager
  
• Maintenance request line
  
• Nearest urgent care or hospital
  
• Local non-emergency police line

Before buying anything for the new place, open every box. You'll get a clearer picture of what you already own and what you actually need. Don't be surprised if some items you packed end up getting tossed. A new space has a way of making old decor feel outdated.

As you unpack, inspect your belongings for damage. If you find any, document it immediately so you have evidence ready when you contact the moving company.

Once everything is unpacked, walk through each room and note what's missing or what you want to replace. Make a list before heading to the store.

• Contact paper for shelves
  
• Dish towels, rags and sponge
  
• Dish soap and dishwasher detergent
  
• Drawer organizers and a drying rack
  
• All-purpose cleaner and baking soda
  
• Pots, pans and cooking utensils (spatula, tongs, whisk, grater, can opener)
  
• Flatware, cutlery and dishware
  
• Mixing bowls and measuring cups/spoons
  
• Small appliances (coffee maker, microwave, blender, stand mixer)
  
• Broom, mop or sweeper
  
• Garbage can, tall kitchen trash bags and paper towels

• Hand soap and bar soap
  
• Bathmat, shower curtain and curtain rings
  
• Towels, hand towels and washcloths
  
• New shower head (check your lease first and save the original to reinstall before you move out)
  
• Garbage can, plunger, toilet brush and cleaner
  
• Toilet paper, soap dish and toothbrush holder
  
• Basic first-aid supplies: bandages, pain relievers, fever reducers and hydrocortisone cream

• Sheet set and comforter
  
• Curtains or blinds if not provided
  
• Hamper, hangers and storage bins

• Laundry detergent
  
• Iron and ironing board
  
• Basic sewing kit

• Tool set (hammer, screwdrivers, pliers)
  
• Tape measure, level and a set of Allen wrenches
  
• Nails, screws, bolts and hooks
  
• Extension cords
  
• Duct tape and electrical tape
  
• Batteries and light bulbs

Take a walk or drive around the neighborhood. Find the places you'll use most: the grocery store, gym, pharmacy, coffee shop and nearby parks. If the community has a website or social media page, check for events, classes or festivals worth attending.

Introduce yourself to your neighbors. Even a brief, friendly exchange can make a difference. Knowing the people around you builds a sense of security, and if you ever need someone to grab your mail or keep an eye on your place while you're traveling, you'll be glad you made the effort.

More on this topic:

• What is included in a rental agreement?
• Apartment budgeting checklist: How to plan for rent and hidden costs
• How to move: A guide to packing, planning and settling in
• Moving survival kit: Essential items to have before unpacking