First Things First: The Proper Order of Doing Things When Moving Out

Moving out of a property can be a daunting task, filled with numerous responsibilities and a never-ending to-do list. Whether you’re a tenant or a homeowner, properly organizing your move-out process is crucial to ensure a smooth transition and leave the property in good condition. You can be buying a new home, ending a tenancy due to the landlord’s change of purpose, moving in with a spouse, or changing cities due to work – anything really. Whatever the reason, having a property that’s safely cleaned and set in order is important not only if you want to sell it best or because you want your security deposit back from the landlord – but because it’s the right thing to do.

And while cleaning when leaving a property is a big task, there are also many other tasks that you need to take care of. Packing, dealing with documents, getting rid of unnecessary things, finding a removal vehicle, choosing reliable movers in Tampa , etc. In this article, we will explore the proper order of doing things when moving out, with a particular emphasis on why the end of tenancy cleaning is so crucial. Now let’s see how two plan your tasks:

Review Your Lease Agreement

Take the time to carefully review your lease agreement before you begin the move-out process. Pay attention to important details such as the notice period required before moving out, any specific cleaning or repair requirements, and guidelines for returning the keys. Understanding the terms and conditions of your lease will help you plan your move-out timeline and avoid any potential conflicts or misunderstandings with your landlord. Make sure to take extra time with the fine print so that you don’t miss out on anything.

Notify Your Landlord

Once you have made the decision to move out, promptly notify your landlord in writing. Check your lease agreement for the required notice period, usually 30 days, and ensure that your notice adheres to that timeframe. Include the date you plan to move out and any additional information your landlord may need, such as your forwarding address for deposit returns or final utility bills.

Declutter and Organize

Moving presents an ideal opportunity to declutter your belongings. A couple of weeks prior to moving day, start by going through each room and sorting items into categories: keep, sell, donate, or discard. This process will help you lighten your load and make packing and unpacking more manageable.

Consider hosting a yard sale or selling items online to earn some extra cash, or donate gently used items to local charities. And if the items are too old or not proper for a second use, make sure you throw them away at the proper place for that.

Arrange for Professional Cleaners

As a tenant, you are typically responsible for leaving the property in a clean and presentable condition. Hiring professional cleaners who specialize in end-of-tenancy cleaning is highly recommended. They possess the necessary knowledge, equipment, and expertise to deep clean every area of the property, ensuring that it meets the landlord’s standards. Research reputable cleaning companies in your area and book their services well in advance to secure a convenient date.

The end-of-tenancy cleaning should be the last thing on your list, but it should not be left to deal with at the last moment. Quite the opposite – take the time in advance to search for a good cleaning company and check its availability. Then, book the cleaners for the day after you’ve moved out all of your belongings.

Start Packing

With decluttering complete, it’s time to start packing your belongings. Begin with items that you won’t need until after the move, such as seasonal decorations or extra linens. Obtain sturdy boxes in various sizes, along with packing materials such as bubble wrap, packing paper, and tape. Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This will make unpacking at your new place much more efficient.

Notify Utility Companies and Change Address

Contact your utility companies to inform them of your move-out date. Set up a date for disconnection or transfer of services to your new address. This will help you avoid unnecessary charges and ensure a smooth transition.

Additionally, notify the post office of your change of address, and update your address with banks, insurance companies, subscriptions, and any other relevant organizations.

Complete Repairs and Maintenance

If you are a homeowner, it is important to address any necessary repairs or maintenance tasks before moving out. Walk through the property and make a note of any issues that need attention, such as leaky faucets, broken tiles, or malfunctioning appliances. Taking care of these tasks before the final walkthrough will help ensure a smooth and stress-free move-out process.

Prepare for Cleaning the Property

Before the end of tenancy cleaners arrive, take your time to prepare the property. Get rid of unnecessary things, keep in order the packed boxes, and confirm the booking of the company. Also, refer back to your lease agreement or contact your landlord for specific cleaning requirements.

Conduct a Walkthrough

Before handing over the keys, arrange a walkthrough with your landlord or property manager. This is an opportunity to address any potential issues or concerns and ensure that both parties are satisfied with the condition of the property. Take note of any areas that require additional cleaning or repairs. If necessary, make arrangements with your landlord to rectify these issues promptly to avoid any disputes over security deposits.

Return the Keys and Complete Move-Out Documentation

On the day of your move-out, after the end of tenancy cleaning is complete, return the keys to your landlord or their representative. Request a receipt or acknowledgment of the key return to ensure there is no confusion or dispute later on. If there are any move-out documents or checklists provided by your landlord, complete them accurately and keep copies for your records. This documentation serves as evidence of the condition you left the property in and can help protect your rights as a tenant.