What to do When Moving Out
A tenant must return the premises at the end of the lease in as good a condition as when moved into less only “normal wear and tear.” Most landlords will try and keep your deposit by claiming they had to do a lot cleaning and repairing. If this happens make sure you get a complete itemized list of damages and cleaning costs. With your “move-in” condition report, you can compare to see if the landlord listed items against you that you had placed in your “move-in” conditional report. This will help you to negotiate with the landlord for more favorable results. Clean apartment as completely as you wish to get your complete security deposit back. (Again, pictures are useful) Landlords are very picky here.
Clean your Rental. Some landlords may give you tips about how to clean your rental during move out. Feel free to go to www.google.com and look up tips for cleaning. Here are some common areas that are forgotten:
Blinds
Base boards (or running boards)
Window sills
Lint in dryer
Inside of front door and garage door
Light fixtures/fans
Kitchen and bathroom cabinets
Be sure to use your “Move In Inspection List” to see if your rental is returned as close as possible to its original condition.
Change your Utilities. You are responsible for changing the name on your utilities. If you are moving to another location in the same area, you can contact the utility companies and set dates to turn off your utilities in one location and turn on your utilities in another location. If you are moving out of the area, be sure to ask your landlord what he/she prefers; some landlords may want the utilities to be switched to their name while others may want all utilities cut off. Make sure you are taking care of your utilities at least a week in advance.
Forward your mail. If you do the same process as mentioned above in “Moving In”, you can easily get your mail forwarded. Once again, make sure you are taking care of this at least a week in advance.
Double check all Draws and Closets. It is easier to check all drawers and closets before you surrender your keys, then trying to get your property back later. Left property may be donated or thrown by the landlord or new tenant.
Make sure all windows and doors are locked. If there is a break in, you may be liable.
Surrender all house keys, mailbox keys and garage openers at the same time. Giving all of your keys at once can make it easier on both you and your landlord.
Sell/Donate Things you Don’t Need Anymore. Please remember that there are plenty of people out there who would love to have the things that you may not want anymore. Some locations that accept donations are:
-Salvation Army located at 1300 Richmond Ave, Mattoon, IL 61938 (217-234-3915)
-Catholic Charities located at 4217 Dewitt Ave, Mattoon, IL 61938 (217-235-0420)
-Community Thrift Store located at 655 Castle Drive, Charleston, IL 61920 (217-348-8362).
The aforementioned information is provided as a general guide and is not intended to provide specific advice. Readers should satisfy themselves that the information is accurate for their purposes and use.
