MOVE-IN DAY Your landlord will give you or should give you a move-in inspection sheet on the day that you take possess of your new apartment. It is very important that you take about 30 minutes and do an inspection of your new home before you move-in. Indicate on the move-in condition sheet any pre-existing damage i.e. spots on the carpet, wall damage, the general condition of the appliances.
Promptly return your completed form to the landlord and be sure to sign and date it. Your landlord should sign it as well and provide you a copy to keep for your records.
MOVE-OUT DAY
Remember that the key to having your damage deposit returned to you is to leave the property clean and in the same condition in which you received it less normal wear and tear. You should not be leaving behind any damage, trash or a place in need of cleaning.
Once the apartment is empty and clean, accompany your landlord for a final walk-thru inspection. This is the time to pull out your copy of your move-in inspection sheet which both you and your landlord signed. Walk from room to room with your landlord and compare the current condition of the apartment with the notations that you made on your move-in form. Take advantage of this opportunity to discuss with your landlord any cost of repairs which will be held out of your deposit. And lastly, it is always wise to take some pictures of the rental unit just to document the condition.
Moving Your Pet
Getting through the emotional stress of moving is difficult enough for adults and children. But what about pets, a species with whom we can't even level? Pet owners are often baffled by their pets' behavior during and after a move. Sometimes it's a personality change, a regression in housebreaking habits or a sudden unexplained illness. Even if you don't notice something that dramatic, there's no question that your faithful companion is feeling stress. How do you move your pet and keep the strain to an absolute minimum -- both to yourself and your beloved pet?
Is That Apartment Hazardous to Your Health?
When you sign a lease committing yourself to a unit in an apartment complex or building, you're agreeing to live in close quarters with strangers. You're also making the assumption that your building will be properly managed and maintained. That includes such factors as air quality and adequate pest control. As a tenant, you have rights, of course, but some of the most serious threats to your health -- such as carbon monoxide -- are ones you can't even see or smell.
Does The Landlord Have To Clean The Apartment Before I Move In?
QUESTION:What can I do about a landlord who promised a clean and newly painted apartment before we moved in, but didn't deliver? We have moved in because we had nowhere else to go, but I am concerned about our children's health and the total well-being of our family. Can I report the unhealthy living conditions to the health department? Please let me know of my legal rights or how to go about this problem in a dignified manner.
