An apartment move in checklist is a room-by-room list of tasks — like inspecting the unit, transferring utilities, changing your address, and testing safety devices — that you complete in the days before and after moving in.
Below, you’ll find the full apartment move in checklist broken into simple stages, plus a free downloadable template at the end.
Apartment Move In Checklist Template
Print this out or save it to your phone — check off each item as you complete it.
Before Move In (2 Weeks Out)
- Confirm move-in date with landlord/property manager
- Re-read lease for move-in requirements
- Book movers or reserve a moving truck
- Set up electricity
- Set up gas
- Set up water
- Set up internet/cable
- Purchase renter’s insurance
- Submit USPS change of address
- Update address with bank
- Update address with employer
- Update address on subscriptions/memberships
Move in Day
- Walk through every room before unloading
- Photograph/video all rooms (dated)
- Note existing damage in writing
- Test smoke detectors
- Test carbon monoxide detectors
- Check fire extinguisher (if provided)
- Test all door and window locks
- Run all faucets and check water pressure
- Flush all toilets
- Test stove and oven
- Check refrigerator and freezer temperature
- Locate circuit breaker box
- Locate water shut-off valve
- Locate gas shut-off (if applicable)
- Collect all keys, fobs, and mailbox keys
Room-by-Room Inspection
Kitchen
- Stove/oven functioning
- Dishwasher functioning
- Garbage disposal functioning
- Cabinet doors/hinges intact
- Countertops free of damage
Bathroom(s)
- Water pressure adequate
- Drains clear (sink, tub, shower)
- Caulking/grout in good condition
- Exhaust fan working
- Toilet flushes properly
Bedrooms
- Closet doors open/close smoothly
- Outlets functional
- Windows lock and open properly
- Flooring free of damage
Living Room
- Outlets functional
- Cable/internet jacks working
- Flooring/carpet condition noted
Laundry Area
- Washer/dryer hookups confirmed
- Washer/dryer functioning (if provided)
First Week After Move-In
- Send written move-in inspection report to landlord
- Confirm mailbox key and mail delivery
- Introduce yourself to neighbors
- Childproof/petproof as needed
- Unpack “first night” essentials box
- Save landlord/property manager contact info
- Save emergency maintenance contact number
Summary
Copy the apartment move-in checklist above, or download the editable Word template below for easy customization and printing.
Also see:
ADHD Morning Routine Checklist