Important Moving Tips

Important Moving Tips

It's a harsh reality to have to face downsizing and relocating. Here are a few tips to help take the edge off AND keep your security deposit:

• Plan your move. Think about as many options and obstacles as you can to help minimize effort and headaches.
• Start collecting boxes early. Try the bookstore, library and local dry good stores for clean, sturdy boxes. Don't be shy to ask the kid in the aisle who's unpacking boxes to shelve goods. S/he may be the best source since handing you the empty boxes saves them work and effort.
• Moving on a weekday may be best because truck rental may be cheaper than weekends and utilities offices will be open.
• Think about where in your home you want to pack and stack boxes and clear that area first.
• Use labels or other way to clearly and consistently mark the packed boxes.
• If you have pets, ask a friend to house and love them while you are moving. This is better for both you and the pet since your pet doesn't understand and may become frightened.
• If you're moving locally, think about having time to come back to clean, use a carpet cleaner or paint, or whatever you will need to get your security deposit back.
• Very important: Many apartment management companies literally bank on being able to keep your security deposit no matter how clean or undamaged your place is. Don't let them do this!   Demand that YOU be there when management or the owner comes in to do the move-out check. Question every "infraction" they may list and fight it (if appropriate). And, if you've scheduled the move-out check and management or the owner  call at the last minute and say they can't be there, be prepared to call the police and tell them you are going to do that if they don't show up. This is a common ploy for them to be able to unjustly charge you your security deposit without you there to contest it.
• Good luck and hang in there!

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