The complete apartment move-in checklist
Everything to inspect, document, and set up before your first night in a new apartment.
Move-in day is the single most important day of your lease. The decisions you make in the first 48 hours — from photographing wall damage to flipping on the right utilities — protect your security deposit, your credit, and your sanity for the next 12 months.
We built this checklist from thousands of verified renter reviews. It's the same list our editors use when they move, and it works whether you're signing your first studio or your fifth two-bedroom.
Two weeks before move-in
Confirm your lease start date in writing, schedule utilities to activate the day before keys, and reserve your elevator slot if you're moving into a high-rise. Most buildings book up two weeks in advance, especially on the first and last weekend of the month.
Order renters insurance now — most buildings require proof of coverage before they'll hand over keys. A basic policy runs $10–$20/month and protects everything you own from theft, fire, and water damage.
Move-in day inspection
Walk every room with your phone camera open. Photograph every wall, every appliance, every floor scuff, and every window screen. Time-stamped photos are the single best defense against bogus deposit deductions.
Test every outlet, every faucet (hot and cold), every burner, the oven, the fridge ice maker, the garbage disposal, the dishwasher, the washer/dryer, and every smoke detector. Document anything broken in writing the same day.
First week priorities
Forward your mail through USPS, update your address on your driver's license and bank accounts, and set up trash and recycling pickup days. Introduce yourself to neighbors — they're your best source for which appliances quietly break and which maintenance requests actually get answered.
The checklist
Paperwork
- Signed lease (PDF + printed copy)
- Proof of renters insurance
- Security deposit receipt
- Move-in inspection form (signed by both parties)
- Building rules and amenity handbook
Utilities to activate
- Electricity
- Gas (if applicable)
- Internet
- Water/sewer (often included)
- Renters insurance
First-night essentials
- Toilet paper, paper towels, hand soap
- Phone charger and a single lamp
- Bedding for one night
- Trash bags
- Shower curtain (often forgotten)
Frequently asked questions
- What should I photograph during a move-in inspection?
- Photograph every wall, floor, appliance, window, and fixture, plus close-ups of any existing damage. Time-stamped photos are the most reliable evidence to dispute security deposit deductions when you move out.
- When should I set up utilities?
- Schedule electricity, gas, and internet to activate the day before your lease start date. This gives providers a buffer for missed appointments and ensures you have power and Wi-Fi on move-in day.
- Do I really need renters insurance?
- Yes — most buildings now require it in the lease, and policies run $10–$20/month. It covers your belongings against theft, fire, and water damage, and includes liability coverage if a guest is injured in your unit.
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