Moving Season Checklist: Before You Sign and Before You Leave

Moving Season Checklist: Before You Sign and Before You Leave

Moving can be both exciting and overwhelming. To ensure a smooth transition, it's essential to follow a structured checklist. Here's a guide to help you before you sign a lease and before you leave your current rental unit.

Before You Sign the Lease

1. Review the Lease Agreement Thoroughly

• Understand the Terms: Ensure the lease specifies rent amount, payment frequency, lease duration, and any included utilities.

• Check for Additional Clauses: Look for terms related to pets, smoking, subletting, and guest policies.

• Mandatory Standard Lease: In Ontario, landlords are required to use the Ontario Standard Lease form for agreements signed after April 30, 2018. (news.ontario.ca)

2. Confirm Rental Deposits

• First and Last Month's Rent: In Ontario, landlords can only collect first and last month's rent as deposits. (news.ontario.ca)

• No Security Deposits: Landlords cannot request additional security deposits or damage deposits.

3. Verify Rent Amount and Payment Details

• Payment Methods: Clarify acceptable payment methods (e.g., cheque, e-transfer).

• Due Dates: Know when rent is due each month.

4. Arrange Utility Transfers

• Identify Responsibilities: Determine which utilities you're responsible for (e.g., hydro, gas, internet).

• Set Up Accounts: Contact utility providers to establish accounts in your name.

5. Plan Moving Logistics

• Book Movers or Rental Truck: Reserve moving services well in advance, especially during peak moving seasons.

• Elevator Reservations: If applicable, book elevator time slots for moving day.

Before You Leave Your Current Rental Unit

1. Provide Proper Notice

• Written Notice: In Ontario, tenants must give a minimum of 60 days' written notice to end a tenancy, and that notice must expire on the last day of a rental period. (ontario.ca)

• Use Official Forms: Complete the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) Form N9 (Tenant's Notice to Terminate the Tenancy).

2. Schedule a Move-Out Inspection

• Coordinate with Landlord: Arrange a mutually convenient time for the inspection.

• Document Unit Condition: Take detailed photos or videos of every room, including appliances and any existing damages. (news.ontario.ca)

3. Clean and Repair the Unit

• Thorough Cleaning: Ensure the unit is clean, including appliances, floors, and bathrooms.

• Repair Damages: Address any damages beyond normal wear and tear.

4. Return Keys and Access Devices

• Collect All Keys: Return all keys, fobs, garage remotes, and parking passes.

• Obtain Receipts: Keep evidence of key return.

5. Cancel or Transfer Utilities and Services

• Utility Accounts: Contact providers to cancel or transfer services effective on your move-out date.

• Mail Forwarding: Set up mail forwarding through Canada Post to ensure you receive all correspondence.

6. Provide a Forwarding Address

• Update Contact Information: Inform your landlord of your new address for any future correspondence.

7. Document the Move-Out Process

• Final Walkthrough: Conduct a walkthrough with your landlord, noting any discrepancies.

• Keep Records: Maintain copies of all correspondence, notices, and move-out documentation.

By following this checklist, you can ensure a smooth transition into your new home and protect your rights as a tenant.

For more detailed information, refer to the Ontario Tenant Move-In Checklist and the Moving Out in Ontario: Tenant Checklist for Getting Your Deposit Back.

What to Do Next

• Review Your Lease: Ensure all terms are clear and agreed upon.

• Prepare for Move-In: Organize your belongings and plan your moving day logistics.

• Stay Informed: Keep abreast of any changes in tenancy laws that may affect you.

For personalized assistance, consider reaching out to ComplianceEdge.

(news.ontario.ca)