Blog Post  OCABR's Tips When Moving Apartments

Moving can be an exciting time, dropping off your old apartment keys or picking up new ones feels like a promise of a bright future. However, signing a new lease can be stressful while ensuring that the agreement is both affordable and legal.  There are many details to consider when planning a move, such as your budget, packing, utilities, movers, and day-of logistics.  Thankfully, there are some things you can do to make your relocation go a little smoother.

The Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR) protects and empowers consumers through advocacy and education. To that end, OCABR compiled a list of “dos” and “don’ts” for when you plan to change apartments.

Do this when changing apartments:

1. Set a budget for your moving expenses, including required up-front deposits.
   •  In Massachusetts, landlords are allowed to collect the first and last month's rent, a security deposit equal to one month's rent, and the cost to purchase and install a new lock/key. 
2. Work with a licensed real estate agent. 
   • If you are searching for an apartment with the help of a professional, ensure they are properly licensed with the Division of Occupational Licensure (DOL).  Use the DOL’s online verification tool to check the status of a real estate license.  Keep in mind that, only a licensed real estate broker or salesperson can charge a finder’s fee.
3. Pack your belongings well while keeping in mind how the items will be moved.
   •  If you are getting movers make sure your items are protected and labeled before being loaded on the truck.  If you are moving everything yourself, consider the size and weight of each box.  
4. Read the terms and conditions within your new lease agreement. 
   • Know who is responsible for setting up your utilities and monthly service bills.  Determine how future needs and repairs will be addressed with your landlord.
5. Understand the type of tenancy you are agreeing to; tenant under lease or tenant at will. 
   • A tenant under lease signs and abides by a written agreement, including the payment schedule, and the duration of rental. 
   • A tenant at will does not have a formal lease, pays periodically, and can often terminate this type of agreement one full rental period in advance or after 30 days written notice, whichever is longer.  Learn more about the types of tenancies in Massachusetts.
6. Leave your current space in the same shape that you received it, or according to the guidelines within your lease. 
   • Tenants are generally entitled to the immediate return of prepayments made such as the security deposit and last month's rent.  Learn more about the return of deposits on OCABR’s website.

Do not do this when changing apartments:

1. Don’t go overbudget. 
   • If you are worried about the monthly rent or up-front costs, consider sharing the space with a roommate, downsizing, or renting in another location.
2. Don’t sign a lease you do not understand. 
   • Ask questions and request clarification on any matters prior to signing a new lease. 
3. Don’t put money down unless you are confident that you want the apartment.
   • Although you may be legally entitled to the return of some funds up until the landlord formally accepts you as a tenant, that money may be difficult to recover.
4. Don’t provide a deposit or personal information to an unverified landlord or apartment you, or your agent, did not view. 
   • Apartment scams often include requests for large deposits via wire transfer, cryptocurrency, gift card, or other forms or payment that are difficult to track.  These scammers will often give excuses of why they cannot meet in person or schedule a showing, such as military leave or severe medical conditions.
5. Don’t leave things until the last minute. 
   • Gathering your possessions and moving to another apartment can be overwhelming.  Tackle tasks like packing items you don’t need daily at least two weeks prior to moving.  You may also consider setting up cable, internet, and other utility transfers before your move date.

The above tips should set you up for a happy and successful moving day.  Visit OCABR online for more information on landlord and tenant rights.  You may also call the OCABR consumer hotline at 617-973-8787, Monday through Friday from 9:00 am until 4:30 pm, for additional details on renting in Massachusetts.