Moving In to a Rent Ruby® Property

So you’ve found the perfect rental and its time to move in.

Once your security deposit and 1st months rent has been collected, you will be provided with all keys, remotes, etc. that are provided in your lease.

Before you move, Inspect.

Your property manager or landlord will provide you with a Move-In/Move-Out (MIMO) inspection form which will need to be completed prior to moving anything into your unit. This form details out any problems noted in the home, like stained carpet missing items or anything else the landlord may be able to charge against your deposit when you move out. Make sure to return this MIMO form to your property manager before you move in, otherwise, the landlord removes their liability for any issues found that are not in the MIMO form after you move in.

Take this seriously, recording the smallest of problems like nail holes and be sure to take photos of significant damage. Keep an eye out for the following problems:

• Cracks or holes in the floor, walls or ceiling
• Signs of leaking water or water damage in the floor, walls, or ceiling
• Leaks in the bathroom or kitchen fixtures
• Any signs of mold or pests
• Lack of hot water
• Inadequate heating or air conditioning
• Damaged flooring

Request Copies

If something is not to your liking you should ask to have it fixed before moving in, and also ask for a copy of the checklist. The checklist will serve to resolve differences when moving out and claiming your security deposit.

If you sign a lease, the landlord is required to give you a signed copy within 30 days. Be sure to keep it in a safe and secure place.

Buy Renters Insurance

Every renter should also get renters’ insurance. The landlord’s insurance will generally only cover the unit and not your belongings. Renter’s insurance will protect you against loss of your property by fire or theft and often it even helps with temporary housing. It also will protect you against liability if someone claims you injured another person or damaged that person’s property and some policies even cover muggings. Coverage in California for a two-bedroom apartment can be as low as $15 a month.

Notify the Post Office

It is also important to notify the U.S. Post Office of your new address when you move so that your mail can find you. Forms are available at any post office branch. You also may file your change of address online at www.usps.gov.

Setup Utilities

At least one week before moving into your apartment, contact the local utility companies (gas, electricity, water, cable, telephone, sewer, etc.) in order to turn on the utilities in your name. You can set up your utilities directly on RentRuby through our partnership with Utility connection by visiting: https://rentruby.com/residents/utilities/

Additional tips for Moving In

• Pay for professional movers or ask friends and family to help you
• Collect boxes a few weeks before moving
• Label boxes with a marker
• Buy cleaning supplies and expect to do some cleaning
• Before doing any painting or repairs, check with the landlord to see what is and isn’t allowed
• Figure out where you want to put your furniture before moving in
• Ask your landlord where you are allowed to store your belongings, where you are allowed to park and what the property rules are
• Lastly, enjoy your new place. It’s your home.

With these important steps you can make sure the excitement of moving into your new home lasts.