Moving into a new place is exciting - but a few quick checks before and after move-in can save you stress later. This guide helps you confirm that everything is ready, safe, and working properly - and shows how to use RentCheck to document what you find.
Before You Move In
These simple steps will help you catch any issues early and make sure you are ready for move-in day.
1. Review Your Lease
Confirm move-in costs and pay any fees or deposits on time.
Double-check what’s included in your rent (utilities, internet, trash, parking, etc.).
Make sure you understand the rules about pets, maintenance, and renters insurance.
Keep digital or printed copies of your signed lease for your records.
👉 Learn more: Understanding Your Lease Language
2. Set Up Utilities and Internet
Contact your local providers to start electricity, gas, water, and trash service before your move-in date.
Schedule internet or cable installation early — appointments often book up fast.
Note your account numbers and keep them handy for your first billing cycle.
3. Update Your Address
File a Change of Address form with USPS so mail forwards automatically.
Update your address with your bank, employer, insurance provider, and subscriptions.
Label your mailbox with your name or unit number if needed.
💡 Tip: Submitting your change of address about a week before move-in helps mail forwarding start right on time.
4. Stay Organized
Declutter before leaving your old place to make moving easier.
Pack one “essentials” bag with clothes, toiletries, and basic supplies in case your move runs behind.
Day of the Move
1. Inspect the Unit with RentCheck
Before unpacking, complete your move-in inspection using the RentCheck app.
💡Pro Tip: If you get your keys before move-in day, do your inspection while the property is still empty - it’s easier to spot and photograph issues before furniture arrives.
Follow the prompts in the app to:
Capture photos and notes of each room.
Look for scratches, stains, leaks, or anything that isn’t working properly.
Test lights, faucets, toilets, outlets, and appliances.
Check for signs of pests (droppings, small holes, or insect activity).
Once you’ve completed your inspection, submit it through RentCheck — this creates a timestamped record of the property’s condition at move-in.
If you notice something serious afterward, you can reopen the inspection to add notes or reach out to your property manager.
📝 Tip: Mark items that need attention as “Fair” or “Poor,” and leave detailed notes for your property manager.
Note: If your property manager hasn’t issued you a move-in inspection, you can easily create your own in the app. Learn how here.
2. Check Safety and Security
While completing your inspection, confirm that:
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors work properly.
All doors and windows close and lock securely.
You’ve located the main water shut-off valve, circuit breaker, and fire extinguisher (if provided).
If locks haven’t been changed since the last tenant, ask about re-keying for safety.
You can also use RentCheck to document safety features like window locks, alarms, or detectors.
3. Finish Utilities and Internet Setup
Record meter readings on move-in day so your first bills start accurately.
Take photos of meters in RentCheck for reference.
Plug in your router and confirm that your internet connection is working.
4. Unpack Essentials — and Order Takeout 🍕
You’ve earned it! Focus on your essentials first, and give yourself time to settle in before tackling full unpacking.
During Your First Week
Days 1–2
Start to unpack and test all utilities (electricity, water, gas, Wi-Fi).
Double-check appliances like the oven, fridge, and dishwasher.
Do a light clean - even freshly prepared units collect dust between tenants.
Watch for pests around sinks, cabinets, and baseboards.
If you spot anything new, document it in RentCheck to keep your records updated.
Days 3–5
Deep clean surfaces, shelves, and baseboards for a fresh start.
Set up renters insurance if you haven’t already. Learn why it’s important here.
Test your internet strength in different rooms.
Learn your trash and recycling days or building policies.
Explore your neighborhood — find nearby groceries, pharmacies, and transit stops.
Days 6–7
Check that mail forwarding is working correctly.
Review your first utility confirmations or bills to ensure everything’s in your name.
Re-test smoke detectors and make sure you know where your emergency shut-offs are.
Note any issues that came up during your first week and record or report them in RentCheck.
💡 Helpful Tips for a Stress-Free Move
Use RentCheck for documentation: It’s the easiest way to keep an accurate, time-stamped record of your unit’s condition and any issues that arise.
Start early: Set up utilities and mail forwarding at least two weeks before moving.
Stay organized: Keep important documents (lease, receipts, photos) in one folder or digital file.
Clean as you go: A quick wipe-down while unpacking makes your new home feel fresh faster.
Speak up early: If you find maintenance or pest issues, report them quickly — either directly through RentCheck (if enabled) or by contacting your property manager.
Helpful Resources
RentCheck Resident Guide – Learn how to complete and submit inspections easily.
USPS Change of Address Form – Forward your mail to your new address.