How far in advance do I need to notify my landlord that I'm moving out?

You generally need to give 30 days' notice before moving out, but it's important to review your current lease to confirm the exact timeframe. Make sure to provide that notice in writing to have a formal record.

What should I do when I arrive at my new apartment to protect my rights as a tenant?

Document everything by taking photos and videos of each room's condition, and create a list of existing damages to hand over to your new landlord within the first 48 hours. Also verify that locks, hot water, the stove, heating, and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are all working properly.

What should I do to get my security deposit back from my previous apartment?

Provide your new address in writing to your previous landlord so they know where to send the deposit, and take photos of the old apartment before handing over the keys as evidence of its condition. Keep in mind that the legal deadline for the landlord to return the deposit varies by state, and if they fail to do so on time, you can take legal action.

Complete checklist for moving to a new apartment in the USA

Your complete guide to a stress-free move

Moving to a new apartment is exciting but can be chaotic without proper organization. With this step-by-step list, nothing important will slip through the cracks.

4 weeks before moving

Review your current lease: how much notice must you give? (generally 30 days)

Give written notice to your current landlord that you are leaving

Research moving companies or ask friends and family for help

Start packing things you use least

Change your address with the postal service (USPS.com — it is free)

2 weeks before

Transfer or connect utilities: electricity, gas, water, internet

Update your address at: bank, work, children’s school, driver’s license

Pack by room and label each box clearly

Make an inventory of your belongings (useful for renters insurance)

Moving day

Take photos of the old apartment BEFORE handing over the keys

Read the meters for electricity, water and gas

Deep clean the apartment you are leaving

Hand over the keys formally and get a receipt

Check the new apartment: does everything work? Is there any damage?

When you arrive at the new apartment

Document EVERYTHING: take photos and videos of the condition of each room

Make a list of existing damage and give it to the new landlord within the first 48 hours

Check that these work: locks, hot water, stove, oven, heating, air conditioning

Test the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Keep a copy of the signed lease in a safe place

First week in your new home

Meet your neighbors: good relationships make everything easier

Identify the emergency exits of the building

Locate the fuse box and the main water shut-off

Set up your renters insurance if you do not have it yet

Write down important numbers: landlord, maintenance, building emergencies

To get your deposit back from the previous apartment

Give your new address in writing to the previous landlord

The landlord has a legal deadline to return the deposit (varies by state)

If they do not return it on time, you can take legal action

A well-planned move saves time, money and many headaches.

Complete checklist for moving to a new apartment in the USA

Your complete guide to a stress-free move

4 weeks before moving

2 weeks before

Moving day

When you arrive at the new apartment

First week in your new home

To get your deposit back from the previous apartment

Frequently Asked Questions

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