Back to: Finding Your Place: Overcoming Barriers in Rental Housing

In the ‘Moving In’ section, learners will find out how to get ready for the big move. It includes a checklist for moving day and tips on settling into the new place, like inspecting the property and reporting any problems right away.

• Notify Important Contacts: Make a list of everyone who needs to know you’ve moved. This includes family, friends, your bank, employer, and any subscription services. Don’t forget to file a change of address with the post office.
• Update Legal and Support Contacts: If you’re reporting to any agencies, like probation or social services, inform them of your new address immediately. It’s crucial for staying in compliance with any legal or support requirements.
• Set Up Utilities: Before you move in, arrange for utilities like water, gas, electricity, and internet to be switched over to your name. It’s a good idea to do this a few days before you move to ensure everything’s up and running when you arrive.
• Ask About Utility Assistance: If you’re concerned about utility deposits, reach out to local assistance programs. Many areas offer help, especially if you’re moving into your first place or have limited income.
• Submit Driving License or other ID address changes, most of these are required by law within a certain number of days of a change of address.
• Do a Thorough Walkthrough: Before unpacking, do a detailed walkthrough of your new place. Take photos and note any damages or issues. This can prevent disputes with your landlord later.
• Submit Repair Requests: Identify any issues that need to be submitted to the landlord for repair, be patient as excluding major life or property threatening problems like fires, broken water pipes and major leaks, landlords typically have a reasonable amount of time to complete repairs. Make sure you understand the process and are understanding and appreciative, you want the landlord to take your requests seriously and that means being accommodation and professional during the process.
• Clean Before Unpacking: Give your new place a good clean, even if it looks spotless. It’s easier to do this before all your stuff is in the way.
• Plan for Pest Control: This is a good time to install pest prevention items like roach or ant bait stations which can be places under sinks, behind and under appliances. Preventing pests is far easier than getting rid of them once they are established.
• Plan Your Unpacking: Unpack methodically, starting with essentials like bedding, toiletries, and kitchen items. It’ll make the first few days more comfortable.
• Meet the Neighbors: Introduce yourself to your neighbors. It’s good to build friendly relations early on. Let them know they can come to you if they have any concerns.
• Learn About Emergency Exits: Familiarize yourself with emergency exits and protocols for your building. Safety first!
• Locate Necessary Services: Find out where the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, hospital, and public transport options are located. It’s good to know these before you need them in a pinch.
• Review the Rules: If you’re moving into a place with a homeowners’ association (HOA) or similar, review the community rules. Knowing the trash pick-up days, quiet hours, and parking regulations can save you from fines or complaints.
• Secure Your Space: Make sure you know how to secure all access points to your home, including any windows. Make a spare copy of your key and leave with a trusted person. Consider renters insurance to protect your belongings.
• Connect with Local Resources: If you need furniture or household items, look into local community groups or organizations that offer support for those setting up a new home.