Commuter Center lists things to consider when moving out

Commuter Center lists things to consider when moving out

From the Commuter Center and Off-Campus Services

Are you planning to move from your residence soon? Make sure you do it right. Moving out can be a time-consuming process even under the best circumstances. Knowing the essential tasks can help reduce that stress and facilitate a clean break from your lease.

Moving out = money
Landlords are required to return your entire security deposit plus 1 percent interest for every year they held the deposit. They may, however, deduct any costs above the routine maintenance of the residence. Always request an itemized list of deductions.

Clean and capture (with a photograph, that is)
Before you move out, take a photo of the condition of your place. This means, clean it thoroughly first and make a detailed visual record of the state of your residence; also, take your pictures as close to move-out day as possible to reduce the risk of undocumented damage between the two events.

Clump and dump
So you've managed to fill your place with more clutter than the attic back at mom and dad's. No problem. Clump your belongings into two piles: one headed for your next residence and the other for things you don't want. If you discover that you have a seemingly unhealthy love of empty pizza boxes and similar trash, say "when" and put garbage in the garbage.

Three R's: Re-examine, Re-evaluate, Recycle
Now that you have your two piles, focus your attention on the unwanted one. Practice your three R's: Re-examine the pile. You'll notice that some stuff is recyclable or can be donated and other stuff is less deserving of such a worthy fate. Step two: Re-evaluate the items. Cast judgment and separate the chosen articles from the unworthy. Step three: Recycle the items you have chosen for that purpose. We know you want to keep that Pentium II for nostalgia, but do it a favor and take it over to the recycling center. Check out sites such as RethinkRecycling, Goodwill Industries International Inc., or the Salvation Army for more information about what to do with your electronics and gently used items.

Storage
Not everyone who is moving out is returning to a residence immediately. If you're planning on being without a permanent residence for an extended period of time, consider keeping your belongings in a storage facility. You may be neighborly; however, that person offering to watch your personal effects for free might not be. Check out sites such as SMARTBOX for storage options. As always, make sure you understand the contracts that many of these places offer.

Utilities
Cancel utilities before you move out. This may or may not involve some work, so set aside plenty of time.

Contact your county for more information
Use good old-fashioned legwork. Since different locales have different laws and regulations, make sure to contact your county about more information on any of the above topics.

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