For renters moving is as inevitable a part of life as waking in the morning. However, just because renters move often doesn’t mean it comes easily to them. Quite the opposite: many renters still make the same moving mistakes, some of which cause them trouble and aggravation when it’s time to move out. Here, UF Mover Guys, a team of movers Gainesville renters trust, lists common post-move errors and how renters can avoid them.
Over-Customizing The Interior
The apartment isn’t yours to own; by definition, it’s a rental. However, you still can decorate however you want — up to a degree. Keep in mind: the alterations you make must be undone before you move out. Otherwise, you’re financially liable for repair costs. If you take customizations too far — painting rooms a color that’s hard to paint over; swapping out ceiling fans and appliances; attaching wall hangings with big nails that create gaping holes — that will cost you later. Instead, stick to ephemeral decorations — like sticky putty for wall art — and refrain from altering things that can’t be easily brought back to their original appearance.
Letting Your Guard Down
During all of the excitement of moving, it’s easy to let down your guard. You’re so focused on what’s in front of you, you forget about the dangers around you. But even if the area itself is safe, an Instagram post depicting your truck-full of belongings on the street side could post a security risk. Other lapses of security include leaving doors and windows unlocked, which can invite in intruders, vandals, or thieves. To deter theft at your apartment, you should remain vigilant: lock up when you’re not home, even if it’s only for a few minutes, and have a trusted confidant keep tabs on your stuff.
Cleaning The Wrong Way
Landlords ask tenants to clean their apartments before moving out — that’s standard practice. But this policy is a double-edged sword. It’s beneficial to you when you first move in: the apartment is freshly cleaned and in pristine condition. However, after you’ve settled into the apartment, you have to clean regularly to prevent things from quickly going downhill, at which point you’re left with a sizable clean-up on moving day. Worse still, if you don’t get things cleaned up, the landlord keeps your security deposit (usually one or two month’s rent). As a workaround, have the moving company put your belongings in storage for a few days. This gives you time to deep clean the apartment while its empty.
UF Mover Guys understands the needs of renters. Our movers in Gainesville assist every tenant from students in dorms or off campus housing to families or professionals in high-end condos and townhouses. We charge no travel or fuel fees for local moves, and we have small and large trucks, climate-controlled storage, moving supplies, and anything else you’ll need to get the job done. For help moving, contact us today!