Moving Out Checklist

At the end of your tenancy, there are a number of things you need to do to make sure that your move goes smoothly and you get your deposit back.

This applies to all rented accommodation except where you live with the Landlord, or in University Accommodation.

Here is a list of things you need to check and do.

Make sure that you, or the Landlord, has given notice.

With the changes brought in by the Renter's Rights Act tenancies may not end at the end of the fixed term written in your contract. For the tenancy to be ended one of the following must have taken place:

Your Landlord issued a valid Section 21 Notice before 1 May, to end the tenancy any date before 31 July.
Your Landlord has issued a valid Section 8 Ground 4A notice to end the tenancy any time before 30 September
You have served valid notice to end the tenancy on the date you wish to move.
You and your landlord have agreed (ideally in writing) that you will move out and they will end the tenancy on a certain date.

If you are unclear, or have not served or received notice speak to your Landlord to ensure that they know and agree with when you are leaving. If you have any problems, get in touch with LUU advice.

Make sure the property is clean and tidy

You must leave the property in a clean and tidy state. It does not matter if this was not the case when you moved in, this is a separate issue, the Landlord can deduct from your deposit if the property is not left clean.

Don't leave this to the last minute, as it may take longer than you think. Make sure you clean everything - behind sofas, in cupboards, ovens, sinks, toilet's, baths and so on.

Make sure any waste is disposed of

If you have large items or lots of waste, don't just leave this outside or in the bins. Arrange to take them to the tip, or for the council or a licensed waste collector to remove these. Remember services like this may be busy at this time of year, so make sure you plan this in advance. If you leave waste in the street, or it overflows into the street the council may fine your for fly-tipping. If you leave it in the house or garden the Landlord may charge you.

Report any issues

If there are any issues with the house that you have not reported, or any damage (including scuffs, stains or minor damage) that you have caused it's best to speak to the Landlord now. If they find this later in a inspection, or their new tenants report this they may be more annoyed about this. If there's damage, own up and arrange to pay or get it sorted.

Take Photos

It's a good idea to take photos of the property so that you can prove it is clean and tidy, and everything is in order, if the Landlord disputes this. Make sure these are clear and details.

Make sure bills are paid

Your contract may state that the Landlord can keep back the deposit until you prove all bills are paid. Make sure everything is settled, and you have proof of this. It's a good idea to take picture of the meter readings too in case there is any dispute with suppliers.

Make sure you update the council tax

Especially if you are a final year student, make sure you notify the council that you have moved - if you are a final year student and your tenancy ends on 30th June you may be liable for council tax from the end of term (which is normally mid June every year)

Remember to update your address with the University, Banks etc

You don't want important post or information getting lost, so make sure you update your address with anywhere that needs it.

Hand in your keys

Make sure you return your keys! You can be charged, or even end up paying extra rent if you dont.