Whether it's time to bid farewell to your campus-side crib because the semester's wrapping up, you're jet-setting for an exchange, or simply moving on to new digs, navigating the move-out process is key to a smooth transition.

1. Mastering the Move

The act of moving out is a well-orchestrated dance of boxes, transport, and timing, especially if you're balancing it with exams and your student life. A seamless move requires meticulous planning to ensure everything from your favorite mug to your mountain of textbooks makes it safely to your next stop.

Making It Happen:

• Plan Ahead: Start your moving checklist early, at least a month in advance, to avoid last-minute panic.

• Choose Your Transport: Whether renting a van, hiring movers, or enlisting friends, decide early and book services to avoid peak time price hikes.

• Declutter: Moving is the perfect excuse to declutter your space. Less stuff means less to move!

• Essentials Box: Pack a box of day-one essentials to avoid rummaging through boxes for your toothbrush or charger.

2. Cleaning and Repairs

Leaving your rental spick and span can be the ticket to securing your full security deposit return. Landlords expect their property back in tip-top shape, barring normal wear and tear, to return your security deposit.

Cleaning Hacks:

• Deep Clean: Tackle every nook and cranny, from the oven to the bathroom tiles. Consider a cleaning service for a truly gleaming farewell.

• Minor Repairs: Patch up small holes, replace light bulbs, and touch up paint to leave the place as you found it.

• Document: Take before and after photos of your clean and repaired space for your records.

• Green Clean: Use eco-friendly cleaning products for an environmentally conscious cleanup.

📊Most disputes over security deposits stem from cleaning issues. A thorough clean can make all the difference.

3. Getting Your Security Deposit

That chunk of change you handed over at the start? Here's how to make sure it finds its way back to you. Your security deposit is essentially your money, held in trust to ensure you fulfill your tenancy obligations.

Recovery Route:

• Review Your Lease: Know the terms regarding the security deposit return and any potential deductions.

• Provide Forwarding Details: Ensure your landlord knows where to send your deposit after you move out.

• Understand Timelines: Most provinces have specific timelines within which deposits must be returned post-inspection.

• Dispute Resolution: Familiarize yourself with the process in your province should there be disputes over deductions.

📊More than 70% of students successfully recover their full security deposit, with proper preparation being a key factor.

4. Nailing the Final Inspection

This is your chance to walk through the rental with your landlord, verifying its condition and advocating for your deposit return. The final inspection is a deciding factor in how much of your deposit you'll see again, if there any damages to deduct from.

Inspection Prep:

• Schedule Wisely: Set the inspection for after you've cleaned and emptied the space, but before you officially hand over the keys.

• Be Present: Walk through with your landlord, discussing any issues on the spot.

• List of Improvements: Point out any repairs or improvements you've made.

• Ask Questions: If deductions are mentioned, ask for specifics and how costs were determined.

5. Wrapping Up Utilities

Unsettled utility accounts can affect your credit score or lead to unexpected bills if you forget to close or transfer your accounts.

Utility Wind-Down:

• Notify Providers: Contact your utility companies well in advance to notify them of your move-out date.

• Final Readings: If possible, arrange for final meter readings to ensure accurate final billing.

• Clear All Bills: Ensure all outstanding utility bills are paid up to avoid any hiccups with your security deposit.

• Transfer Services: If you're staying in the same area, you might be able to transfer services to your new address.

  
  

You thought moving in was a task? Whew! So is moving out. And just so you're overprepared, here are a few more tips to wrap up your rental journey!