Moving In

It can often feel overwhelming to consider moving to an apartment building or house, especially if you do not have friends or family nearby to help.

Sometimes seniors’ centres will be able to tell you about a volunteer or low cost service that is available to help you move. Here are some other places to check:
 

• the veterans’ association,
• your place of worship,
• the classified ads in the local newspaper, or
• the notice board at your local library.

You can also ask neighbours if they can suggest someone. If you are using a company, make sure that they are reliable and bonded.
 

Your local post office or real estate office often has booklets about the practical things that people need to do when planning a move. For example you will usually need to:
 

• make a postal change of address,
• notify the utility, credit card, and other companies that you do business with,
• change your driver’s license, etc.

 

B. Should you have the locks changed?
 

Did you know that you can ask the landlord to change the locks to your suite when you move in? The landlord cannot charge you any extra for this. Many seniors find it helps to have the locks changed. That way, the previous tenants (or people to whom they gave keys) are prevented from opening the door to your home. You cannot change the locks after you move in without your landlord’s permission or an Arbitration Order (see page 36).

 

C. What is a move-in inspection?

The landlord should do a move-in inspection with you and use a checklist. The two of you should do this inspection together. Otherwise, you can do the inspection yourself. Ask a friend to help.

Before you move in, check out the apartment or house. Go room to room. Note:
• Is there any damage?
• Is anything missing? or
• Does anything need cleaning?

Write down things like:
• stains or cigarette burns on the carpet, or
• water damage in the bathroom around the toilet.

Check for:
• holes in the walls, particularly behind doors,
• cracked windows,
• working burners on the stove, and
• less obvious things, such as whether the refrigerator freezer works.

If the landlord is doing the inspection with you, do not allow the landlord to make any notes on the checklist that you do not agree with. Make or get a copy of the checklist.

If you find other damage or problems after you move in, let the landlord know in writing. Keep a copy of your letter for your own records.

 

Things to Remember

• Use a checklist and write down the condition of the place when you move in.
• Bring a witness or take pictures.
• Put your original inspection list away safely with your other important papers.
• Make a copy for the landlord.
 

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