If you’re planning to move out of your first apartment, you might not know the proper etiquette of the process. It involves several steps that will make the transition smoother, leave a good impression on the landlord, and help get your security deposit back. Before vacating the apartment, here’s what you need to do.

The Official Apartment Move Out Checklist

1. Give Appropriate Notice

Apartment communities require advanced notice for vacating tenants. You can find the appropriate timeline specified in the lease. Most landlords want to be alerted of the move at least 30 days prior, but some will ask for a 60- or even 90-day notice.

Failure to let the manager know of the transition in advance can leave you responsible for several months’ rent or result in the loss of the security deposit. A notice to vacate is usually accepted as a written letter. It should include the new address to accept the return of your deposit.

2. Fix Any Damages

Landlords use security deposits to cover damage beyond normal wear and tear. Any holes in the walls from posters or picture frames, stains in carpeting, or scratches that were not there when you moved in should be fixed. You will also need to change back any replaced or altered features that weren’t agreed upon with the landlord, such as swapped-out light fixtures.

3. Do a Deep Clean

To get your security deposit back in full, you’ll need to leave the apartment in a similar condition to when you moved in. Therefore, try to get it as clean as possible before vacating. 

Perform a deep clean, or hire a professional service to leave it spotless. Give yourself time to do some last-minute cleaning after moving all belongings out of the residence.

4. Take Pictures

Tenants should always take pictures of apartments before they move in and right after they move everything out. This approach provides proof of the home’s condition. If the landlord contacts you with an issue later, you can check these images to see if you missed something. The photographs also work to show that the problem occurred after you vacated.

5. Do a Walk-Through

See if you can schedule a walk-through with the landlord once the apartment is empty. At this time, you can discuss any problem areas or necessary repairs in person. Ask the landlord if they can write up a checklist of items that need addressing or a confirmation that there were no issues. You can also write one up yourself and send it to them.

If it’s time to move to a new apartment community, consider making Lailani Apartments your home. Located in Kailua-Kona, HI, these ocean view apartments offer luxurious amenities and spacious designs at affordable rates. They include plush carpeting, a solar-assisted water heater, on-site laundry, designated parking, and convenient proximity to nearby shopping, dining, and entertainment options. For information on rental eligibility and rates, visit their website or call (808) 329-2684.