Essentials for move out day

[Sam Faas]

Hi again everyone,

I have a tenant moving out in a few days and wanted to make sure I got all the essentials for move out day down.  I will be there physically to collect the keys.  Please let me know if there is anything I should add here:

1) Change utilities in my name (a few days before)

2) Recover keys from tenant, and change all the locks in the house

3) Check all fire safety equipment

4) Shut off water main and gas main valve, to prepare for vacancy, till next tenant

5) Go over move out checklist with tenant for any damage

6) Install Simplisafe and motion detection lights for vacancy security

7) Identify repairs to be completed before next move in and to be completed during vacancy.

8) Sign form indicating tenant is ending their tenancy and get address to mail their security deposit

9) Take photos for posting of listing, if the condition is acceptable.

Anything else I should put in my list, to maximize the efficiency of my time on the day of move out.

[Colleen F.]

@Sam Albert You seem like you have waited for move out to try to re-rent, that has alot of disadvantages.  It would be good to have already advertised for a new tenant, You can do an upcoming vacancy posting or similar even if you use old photos. I would do that soon so you don't lose alot of time to vacancy. 

For move out, I generally give tenants a list of what they should do at move out. What they need to clean and what clean means. (not leaving stuff, putting out trash, etc). I put the utilities in my name. I do not shut off gas/water. Gas companies want to check all the equipment again after shutoff so turning back on is harder.  Cleaning companies and repair people need water. The rest of it you are on track for. I would make sure all the doors and windows are closed/locked when you leave.  Depending on your area you may want to make sure HVAC is set to a good temperature. If you are in a hot climate you might want to set AC to a higher temperature but not off.