Are you moving into rental property soon? With this checklist, you can be sure you won’t overlook anything. From canceling your old rental contract to registering with your new municipality. We list all the steps for you.
What do you need to take care of when moving to a rental property?
Use the checklist below to make sure your move to a rental property goes well and smoothly. By following these steps, you will avoid unnecessary stress and be sure that everything is taken care of on time.
Signing the lease
Before you can actually move, it is important that you carefully review and sign the new lease. Always check the points below carefully to avoid any surprises:
- The rent and service charges
- The duration of the contract
- The minimum rental period
- Any maintenance or deposit arrangements
Cancel current rent
Remember to give your current rental property notice on time. The notice period is usually one to two months. You can always find this in your current rental contract. Always ask for a written confirmation of your termination in the mail, for example.
Switching or signing on and off utilities
Arrange your gas, water and electricity on time. You can take your current supplier with you or switch to a new one. Report your new address to the parties below to avoid being without power or internet after the move:
- Energy supplier
- Water Company
- Internet and TV provider
Tip: Particularly closing down the Internet can take quite a long time. Good to have this taken care of at least 3 weeks in advance.
Change of address
Prevent your important mail from continuing to arrive at your old address. Make sure your change of address is communicated in a timely manner to:
- The municipality (for registration at your new address)
- PostNL (for any services)
- Institutions such as the bank, insurance, family doctor and employer
Learn more about where, to whom and when to notify your change of address in our blog about making a change of address.
Packing contents and belongings
Start packing on time, work by room and clearly label the boxes. This makes unpacking a lot easier. Keep a separate box with:
- Important documents
- Keys
- First supplies after arrival
Planning moving day
Arrange for a van or hire a moving company. Check if you will need a moving elevator or parking permit on moving day (apply to municipality). Prepare items that need to be taken away first.
Tip: Some employers will give you a day off for a move. However, this greatly depends on your employer and contract. Read more about this in our article: How many days off are you entitled to when moving?
Handing over your old rental property
Before you turn in the keys, the home must be clean, empty and in its original condition. Some things to look out for are:
- Cleaning the house thoroughly
- Plugging holes in walls
- Possible removal of floor and lighting
Do you have a lot of stuff in your old home that you don’t want to move with you? We can help you get rid of your old stuff and clean the house thoroughly. We can also help with transferring furniture from the old to the new rental property if necessary. Request a free quote and get a fixed price from us….
In our article, you can learn more about delivering your rental property.
New home inspection
At the key exchange, check that the house is in order. Watch for damage and take pictures as proof. Always put agreements made with the landlord on paper and make sure you always have a copy yourself.
Arranging registration and official documents
After moving, you must register with the new municipality. Also, don’t forget to change your address at:
- Banks
- Insurance
- Tax authorities and any benefits
Furnishing your new home
Now the fun work begins: decorating! Furnish everything to your liking, make it cozy and enjoy your new home.
What does moving to a rental property cost?
The cost of a move can vary widely depending on your situation. Consider:
- Bus rental or moving company fees
- Boxes, packing materials and possible storage space
- Cleaning or repair costs for your old home
On average, a move is between €300 and €800. Moving yourself is often cheaper, but takes more time and effort. Make an estimate of the cost and time in advance and weigh it.
Moving expenses are unfortunately not privately deductible, that is only business. But there are ways to save on moving expenses. You can read more about that here: Are moving expenses deductible?
Need help moving?
Would you rather move without stress? JHC House Clearance is happy to help you. We handle complete removals and can even deliver your old home completely clean. Check out our moving service.
Prefer a digital checklist with everything you need to do in the right order? Check out: Digital moving checklist
More tips on moving? Then read: 17 moving tips to make your move go smoothly
