Moving into your first apartment can be a thrilling experience. The independence that comes from moving into your own space is a great feeling, though it’s important to make sure you’re setting yourself up for success in this new chapter. Learn the 8 key things to do before moving into your first apartment to make sure your transition goes smoothly.
1. Thoroughly Review Your Lease Agreement
Lease agreements for residential properties contain a lot of legal language that is sometimes hard to understand. Make sure you understand everything you’re responsible for and what falls under your landlord’s responsibilities.
Your lease agreement should be very clear on what you can, and can’t, do in your apartment.
2. Schedule an Apartment Walk-Through
It’s important to do an initial inspection with your Building Manager when moving into your new apartment. The Building Manager will have an incoming inspection report they will use (and supply a copy to the leaseholder) to record the condition of the apartment before you move in.
Your inspection report will be for you to have a record of what the space looked like before moving in. This will ensure the apartment is left in the same pristine condition when you decide to move.
3. Check Smoke Alarms and Review Safety Measures
While it’s not something anyone hopes will happen, knowing where the smoke alarm(s) are and maintaining them is important in the event of a fire. When moving into a new space, we recommend knowing the routes you should take in the event of emergency and reviewing the building safety measures to ensure you and your neighbors are kept safe.
4. Change Your Address Alerts
When moving into a new space, an often-forgotten aspect is updating your mailing address from your old home to your new one. You can change your mailing address easily by filling out a form at Canada Post, so the postal delivery is redirected to your new place. It’s good to also alert your bank, credit card companies, work, or any other important organizations to ensure you don’t miss any important letters or packages.
5. Know Where to Pick up your Mail
Make sure you understand where and how you get your mail. Is it a communal box or does it get delivered to your door? How are packages handled? Is there a secure central space where packages are left or are they just left outside your door?
6. Know Your Trash Pickup Schedule
Every section of the city has different waste and recycle pickup days. This said, your apartment may have a trash room or chute where you can easily dispose of your waste. Though you’ll often receive this information upon move-in, we recommend asking your building manager where or when you can dispose of your waste and recycling.
7. Inquire about Tenant’s Insurance
Having renter’s insurance protects you and your belongings in the event of unforeseen events, such as floods or fires, or theft. Some rental agencies require renter’s insurance in your lease and investing in renter’s insurance can protect you from paying out of pocket if your belongings become damaged or lost.
8. Create a Monthly Budget
By making a simple budget, you can live stress-free knowing your daily living expenses are paid for. As a first-time renter, it’s important to make sure your cost of living is covered before making large (or even smaller!) purchases. Even smaller practices such as planning for your grocery store run by making a list can help you manage your finances and not overspend on unplanned purchases.
Find your First Apartment with Summit Properties
Ready to start looking for your first apartment? Contact a Summit Properties agent today and browse some great first apartment options. Our experienced team can help you understand your lease and make getting your first apartment a memorable experience.