Moving into an apartment can be one of the most exciting times of your life. You're finally getting the freedom you have wanted for so long and are learning the responsibilities of becoming an adult. Here is a list of things that you might want to check before you officially move in.
1. If the locks on the doors have been changed since the last occupant.
Usually, there would have been people who have lived in the apartment before you. Just in case, you should make sure the locks have been changed since they have moved out. No one wants to have the fear of someone else walking into their kitchen on a Friday night.
2. If the smoke alarms have fresh batteries installed.
One of the biggest things about moving into an apartment is learning how to make your own food. It would be a smart move to make sure the smoke detector is ready to go, just in case anything were to happen while cooking. It's sometimes easy to forget you put something in the oven and didn't set a timer for it.
3. If you know and can identify the evacuation routes.
Your safety should be your number one priority. Make sure that you know exactly where to go if there is an emergency in the building. Since buildings aren't all the same, make sure you find this information for your specific apartment either online or in person. You never know when there will be a tornado, so it's important you are always well informed.
4. If you're responsible for the utility bills.
It is likely that some of your utilities will be included in the rent payment, but it's up to you to figure out which ones you still need to get on your own. Finding out what you're responsible to find on your own is important so that you don't wake up one day to no hot water. If you do end up having to pay for extra utilities, make sure you discuss this with your roommate and how you will end up splitting it.
5. If your maintenance is included or if you have to hire someone each time.
As you know, there are many things that can happen at any point in time. You need to make sure you have someone to contact as soon as possible if there is anything urgent needed. Ask your landlord what numbers are best to reach maintenance and how reliable they are for urgent situations. If it isn't included, you will want to ask around for who else is a good resource if something breaks down in your apartment.
6. Where the laundry facilities are located and how much it costs per load.
Even though we wish our parents would still do our laundry every weekend, it's not always a possibility. We all need to have clean clothes so it's important to figure out how much each load will be and where they are in the building. If there are a limited amount of machines in your building, you will want to also find an alternative in case you are in a hurry.
7. When rent is due and who to make the check out to.
One of the most important things of living an apartment is taking responsibility and paying your rent. From day one, you should get familiar with who your landlord is and what their expectations are for you. As long as you abide by the rules, keep the apartment in good shape, and pay your bills, you should be fine.
8. Who the cable TV provider is.
Let's be real, television is an important part of our daily routines. You should check out which TV provider your apartment complex has been most reliable for. Of course, make sure that you pick a provider who has all the best channels with a good price. You'll want to watch TV after a long day at work and school.
9. If the carbon monoxide detector is installed in your unit.
Since carbon monoxide is deadly, make sure that the detector is installed wherever you are living. Since you can't smell or see carbon monoxide, it's essential that the detector is working to ensure your safety.
10. If there is Wifi in the building.
If you don't have Wifi in your apartment, this could be a major problem. Wifi is a necessity in our lives, not just a want. If you need it for work, school, and your social life, it must be important. You'll definitely need it when you're decompressing from a long week and want to watch Netflix with your friends.
If you make sure to check all of these things before you move into your apartment, you will be all set. Taking extra precautions is a must and the adult thing to do. Keep up on your bills, make sure you have your utilities ready to go, and check out the safety plans for your specific unit.
