Things You Need To Check Before You Move Into New Apartment Or House

You’ve chosen the new apartment or home and moving day is nearly upon you. You’ve got quite a to-do list, and you’re slowly checking things off the list. However, there are a few items you may not have put on your list. Before moving into any new property, there are some important steps you should take to protect yourself, your family and your investment.

These Things You Need To Check Before You Move Into New Apartment Or House
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Change the Locks

The real estate agent hands you the keys and you cannot wait to move into your new home. However, you don’t know who else might have a copy of that key. Don’t take chances with unwanted guests and have the locks changed before you start moving in. If you are entering an apartment, ask the landlord if the locks have been changed to ensure that your family will be safe.

 

 

Walkthrough for Damage

When you move out of a rental, the landlord will walk through and look for damage. You will be charged for broken items and other damage, even if that was there when you moved in. The only way to protect yourself is with a move-in inspection. Check for water stains, leaking pipes, damaged screens and stains on the carpet. A small mark on the bedroom floor may not bother you, but you still want it notated so you won’t have to pay for that mark when you move out.

 

 

Check the Systems

In addition to looking for damage, you should also check the systems. Open every window and screen to make sure they move smoothly. Turn on the furnace and air conditioner to ensure that air is moving through the system properly. Flush the toilets, turn on faucets and make sure all the locks work. Bring a small lamp with you to plug in and check outlets. This is the time to report unexpected damage to the real estate company or have the landlord make repairs.

 

 

The Search for Mold

Mold is hard to find once you have furniture in place and start decorating. The best time to look for this hidden invader is before the moving truck arrives. Use a flashlight to peek behind the appliances after you pull them out from the wall. Check inside cabinets and behind plumbing fixtures to make sure there are no leaks or mold. The spores can cause respiratory problems and other health conditions, so it’s important to look for it before moving in. Watch for warning signs of mold including a musty odor, warped wood, cracked paint and water stains. Small areas can be addressed with some bleach and a good scrubbing. Extensive mold problems should be handled by a mold remediation team before you move in.

Check the Landscaping

You probably won’t spend all of your time indoors, and that means that the exterior of your new place is just as important as the interior. Unwanted pests like ants, fleas and other insects can make your new home a nightmare. Look for standing water that will encourage mosquitoes, and make sure that high grass and any brambles are a good distance from the property. Even with the most careful preparation, you may still encounter mosquitoes and bugs when you are outside. Before you move in, pick up a few citronella candles to keep your outdoor living space comfortable and free of biting insects.

It’s exciting to move into a new place that is full of possibilities. However, you don’t want to wind up paying for damage you didn’t do or living with mold. Take the time to inspect your new home before you call for the moving truck. Check for damage, mold, insects and other signs of problems. Have the locks changed, inspect the landscaping and make sure the property is ready for your family.

 

Robert Murphy was a subtenant for 10 years, before he bought a house in Long Island. Here he gave us his tips about what to check before move into new appartment.

 

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