8 tips to remember to successfully move out
30 May 2023
Moving out can be a stressful and complicated process, but it's important to follow certain practices to ensure the unit is in good condition for the next tenant. Here are some tips for a successful outgoing move :
1. Remember to cancel / transfer your subscriptions : it's essential to cancel or transfer your existing subscriptions for certain services such as Hydro-Québec or your Internet subscription.
2. Remove furniture and personal belongings : Be sure to remove all your furniture and personal belongings before you leave. This includes curtains, rugs, mirrors, pictures and decorations. Also be sure to check cabinets, closets and drawers to make sure you haven't forgotten anything.
3. Repair damage : If you have caused damage to the unit during your stay, it is important to repair it before you leave. This may include repairing holes in the walls, fixing leaky faucets, or refinishing carpets and floors. If you are unable to repair the damage yourself, you can hire a professional to do so.
4. Repaint if necessary : If you painted the walls during your stay, it's important to repaint them in white or the original color before you leave. This will allow the next tenant to customize the space to their preference. If you are not able to repaint the walls yourself, you can hire a professional to do so.
5. Clean the unit : The next step to a successful outgoing move is to thoroughly clean the unit. This includes cleaning the surfaces, floors, walls and ceilings. It is important to take the time to clean appliances such as the refrigerator, oven, dishwasher and washing machine to ensure that they are clean and in good working order for the next tenant.
6. Check whether you need a permit to park your moving truck : parking your moving vehicle on the street may require a permit. The city of Montreal's website lets you find out if this is the case, depending on certain conditions (presence of parking meters, etc.).
Also, in condominiums, you need to notify the association to protect the common areas and reserve the elevator. Charges may apply depending on the condominium bylaws, which you normally signed when you moved in.
7. Coordinate your departure with your landlord/rental agency : Once the apartment is clean and empty, you can hand over the keys to the landlord or rental agency managing the property. An inventory of fixtures is not compulsory, but is strongly recommended, so that the landlord cannot make you pay compensation for damage that is not your fault.
A successful outgoing move involves repairing damage, repainting if necessary, removing furniture and personal belongings, thoroughly cleaning the home, and handing over the keys. By following these practices, you can ensure that the unit is in good condition for the next tenant and avoid any conflicts with your landlord.
8. When it comes to moving into your new home : the most important thing to do is to make address changes. There are many changes to be made, and here is a non-exhaustive list of institutions to which you must communicate your new address:
- Banks and financial institutions
- Insurance companies
- Employers
- Schools or children's schools
- Energy suppliers
- Internet access company
- Telephone company
You must also contact the Quebec Change of Address Service and potentially have your mail redirected.
Remember to make these changes about 3-4 weeks before you move in to avoid unpleasant surprises !
