You’ve found a great apartment in your price range and you’re ready to move in. But before you pack your bags and boxes and load the moving truck, you’ll want to take a tour of the apartment. Essentially, it’s like running a home security checklist; walk through the apartment with your landlord or rental agent and determine if there are any issues that need to be fixed before you move in.
Here are some important things to check before moving into an apartment
Safety
Make sure smoke detectors and fire extinguishers are in place. Check building hallways and other areas for fire safety features.
If the windows in your apartment have bars, are they approved security doors that do not require a key? Also make sure each room has an operable window big enough to escape. Find out what the fire escape plan is for the building and make sure you know where to go
Doors and windows
Be sure to check that all locks and doorknobs are secure and not wobbly and that you will be provided with keys for each lock.
Test all windows and doors to make sure they open and close properly.
Are the window coverings intact? Note the missing screens. This is also a good opportunity to check for drafts.
Plumbing
Look around toilets and under and around each sink to make sure nothing is wet or leaking.
Make sure faucets are turned off properly and all sinks stop working.
Check bathtub and sinks for missing grout or tile.
Turn on the shower to test the water pressure and hot water temperature. It is important to find out if you share a water heater or if your unit has its own. (This could affect the type of shower you’ll have in the mornings!)
accessories
Test each appliance to make sure it’s working properly.
On the stove, test each burner and oven/broiler.
Check the refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, air conditioning/heating system, washer, and dryer.
If laundry facilities are in a common area, make sure they are clean, lit, well-maintained, and accessible only to residents.
Electric
It’s a good idea to bring a small device like a radio or clock to test the outlets.
Turn all wall switches off and on to make sure they work properly.
overall condition
Check ceilings for water damage and check walls for peeling paint or wallpaper.
Check closets, sinks, and other places for signs of rodents or insects, such as droppings and bite marks.
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