Before You Move In
Follow the links below or scroll down to learn about important steps to take before moving into your off-campus apartment:
Renters Insurance
Accidents happen! Renters insurance protects you and your personal possessions in the event of a fire, theft, or other incident. Most renters insurance policies will include protection for both personal property as well as personal liability. Your best bet is to choose a policy that includes both protections.
Why get it?
Many renters think their landlord’s insurance policy will cover their personal property, should something happen. This is often not the case. If one of your neighbors does something to cause damage to your personal property, the landlord is not required to cover you under their insurance. A few years ago, an apartment building completely burned to the ground due to an unattended charcoal grill. Of the 40 people who lost all of their possessions, only 2 of them had renters insurance.
How much should you get?
Most policies start at $5,000 worth of coverage for your personal possessions. However, you should make a list of the replacement cost of your property to see if a higher policy limit is right for you. Once you add in your computers, stereo, television, cell phone, clothes, etc., you may find that you have far exceeded the $5,000 basic policy. As for personal liability, most basic policies will include $100,000 in coverage.
How much does it cost?
Renters insurance is surprisingly inexpensive. Basic policies start around $7 to $8 a month. Upgraded polices may run from $10 to $14 per month.
Where can you get it?
You can obtain renters insurance through most major insurance carriers and even some credit unions. You may also be able to bundle a policy through your parents' home owner’s insurance and receive an additional discount.
Security Deposit
Moving out means moving on, to a new place, a new city, new experiences. Renters who are only looking forward to moving on, and don't give adequate attention to the place they're leaving will be sorely disappointed when the security deposit statement comes in the mail.
Security Deposits Start Now
Getting a security deposit back starts before you move in. Research before you rent, document the condition of the apartment, put repair requests in writing and take good care of the apartment while you live there. When researching apartments, ask whether the security deposit is due when you sign the lease, or before you move in.
Move Out Musts:
- Vacate on time (check the lease)
- Turn in keys
- Turn in cleaning receipts (if required)
- Provide written forwarding address to landlord
Preparing to Move Out
Many apartments offer a move out packet detailing the expectations for cleaning and vacating the apartment. If not, be sure to remove all property, garbage and stray items, clean thoroughly, and check the lease for specific requirements like professional carpet cleaning. If your landlord offers a walk-through, take advantage after you have cleaned. The landlord will alert you to any problems while you still have time to fix them.
Refund Time
The landlord is required to send your security deposit refund and an itemized list of damages for any amounts withheld within 30 days after you turn in your keys and provide your forwarding address. If you think the charges are unreasonable, write your landlord a letter or email disputing the charges. Be specific and keep the tone professional. If you are unable to work it out with your landlord, seek the advice of an attorney to explore your options.
Every situation is different. This website is meant to give you only general information, not specific legal advice. For legal advice, consult an attorney.