Moving house as a tenant can be a challenging but also exciting time. There are many aspects that should be considered to ensure a smooth transition. Here are the most important points you should consider when moving:
1. termination of the old rental agreement
- Observe deadlines: Check the notice period in your tenancy agreement. This is usually three months, but can vary depending on the contract.
- Written notice of termination: As a rule, notice of termination must be given in writing. Make sure that you send the letter of termination to the landlord in good time and in a verifiable form (e.g. by registered mail).
2. look for a new apartment
- Apartment viewings: Arrange viewing appointments for potential new apartments.
- Tenant self-disclosure: Prepare all the necessary documents (proof of income, credit report, tenant self-disclosure) to increase your chances of being accepted.
3. organize the move
- Removal company or DIY: Decide whether you want to hire a removal company or carry out the move yourself.
- Means of transport: Organize suitable means of transport (removal van, boxes).
- Moving boxes: Get enough moving boxes and packing materials (e.g. bubble wrap, adhesive tape).
4. change of address
- Residents’ Registration Office: Register your new address with the residents’ registration office in good time. In Germany, you are obliged to re-register within two weeks of moving.
- Important contacts: Inform banks, insurance companies, employers, the tax consultant and other important contacts about the new address.
5. supply contracts
- Electricity, water, internet: Take care of the registration and, if necessary, the change of supply contracts (electricity, gas, water, internet).
- Deregistration: Don’t forget to cancel or deregister your old contracts.
6. deposit and handover
- Deposit repayment: Clarify how and when the deposit for the old apartment will be repaid. It is important to leave the apartment in good condition.
- Handover protocol: When handing over the old apartment, make a protocol to record any damage. It also makes sense to draw up a handover report for the new apartment.
7. renovation and final cleaning
- Renovation work: Check the rental agreement to see if renovations are required (e.g. painting, floors). If so, plan this in advance.
- Cleaning: Make sure that the old apartment is thoroughly cleaned in order to get the deposit back in full.
8th moving day
- Organize helpers: Organize friends or family to help with the move.
- Packing: Pack the boxes in good time and label them clearly to make unpacking easier.
- Catering: Think about catering for you and your helpers on the day of the move.
9. after the move
- Furnishing: Allow time to set up your new home and unpack the boxes.
- Forwarding order: Set up a forwarding order with the post office to ensure that no important mail items are lost.
Conclusion
A move requires thorough planning and organization. By paying attention to the above points, you can ensure that your move goes smoothly and that you quickly feel at home in your new home.