Moving out of a rental property can feel overwhelming, but with a bit of forward planning, it doesn’t have to be. Avoiding common mistakes at the end of your tenancy can make the process far less stressful and can help you keep hold of your full deposit.
As experienced letting agents, we’ve overseen countless tenancy check-outs and know the typical issues that cause disputes. Here’s a straightforward guide to avoiding delays, disagreements, and unnecessary costs.
Don’t… Bury your head in the sand
One of the most common mistakes tenants make is underestimating the work involved. Acknowledge that there are multiple steps required to prepare for moving day.
Start by drawing up a comprehensive checklist and work through your end-of-tenancy tasks gradually. Leaving things until the last minute increases the risk of forgetting something important and adds unnecessary stress.
Don’t… Make assumptions
You’re required to return the property in the same condition it was in when your tenancy began, allowing for fair wear and tear. But if you’ve lived there for a while, your memory of those early days may be a little fuzzy.
Refer back to your original inventory report. This is your guide for furniture placement, garden upkeep, and general cleanliness. One of the common mistakes we see is tenants failing to reset the property as per the initial documentation.
Don’t… Underestimate packing time
Many tenants are surprised by how much they’ve accumulated during their tenancy. One of the most common moving mistakes is leaving packing too late, resulting in a chaotic and stressful final few days.
Begin packing early and sort items into essentials, non-essentials, and items to donate or dispose of. Remember, all your personal belongings must be removed from the property before the check-out inspection.
Don’t… Cut corners with cleaning
Deposit disputes frequently stem from poor cleaning standards. Your tenancy agreement will outline your cleaning obligations, so be sure to follow them carefully. Particular areas tenants often forget include the oven, freezer, windows, skirting boards and curtains.
Whether you clean the property yourself or hire a professional cleaning service, ensure the work is thorough. If you opt for professional help, keep the receipt. You may need to provide proof if there’s a dispute.
On the big day
By now, you should be in a good position. On move-out day, don’t forget to:
- Take final utility meter readings and inform your suppliers.
- Return all keys (including any spare sets).
- Leave the property secure and tidy.
Avoiding common mistakes when moving out of a rental property can mean the difference between a smooth transition and a prolonged, frustrating experience. Planning ahead, knowing your responsibilities, and following through with the small details can make a big difference.
If you found this guide helpful or know someone moving soon, feel free to share it. And if you’re looking for advice on ending your tenancy the right way, contact our team – we’re here to help.
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