For those living in a rental property (a home previously occupied by someone else) for the first time in their lives, it can be difficult to imagine the preparations that need to be made before moving in.
When it comes to preparations and procedures for moving in, the things you need to do and the things you should do vary depending on whether you are moving one month in advance, one to two weeks in advance, the day before, or on the day itself.
In this article, we explain what you need to do before moving into a rental property, the order in which you need to complete the necessary procedures, and the preparation period.
To avoid any problems on the day you move in, proceed step by step once you have decided on the property you want to move into.
20 things to do before moving into a rental property
There are many things you should do before moving into a rental property.
First, we will explain in an easy-to-understand manner 20 things you should do in your new rental property before moving in, divided into categories.
- Walls and floors
- kitchen
- Bath
- toilet
- Washbasin
- washing machine
- pest
- Whole room
There are a lot of them, so we'll try to explain them clearly and concisely. Let's dive right in.
Measures for walls and floors (①〜②)
1. Wipe clean
Before moving in any furniture or appliances, wipe down the room first.
Generally, new homes are cleaned before you move in, but even if you don't clean for a day, invisible dust will still accumulate. This is true even for new buildings.
We recommend that you wipe down not only the floor but also the walls.
②Installation of protective mats
Before moving in large furniture and appliances such as refrigerators and beds, place protective mats over them.
Large furniture and appliances are heavy and can easily dent the floor.
When moving out of a rental property, you are required to restore the property to its original condition, so be sure to install protective mats in advance to prevent scratches and dents on the floor.
Kitchen precautions (③〜⑤)
3. Prevent mold with masking tape
Use masking tape around the sink and the area between the stove and kitchen sink to prevent dirt and mold.
Masking tape is essential in the kitchen, as it can easily get dirty with oil. Sticking it on makes cleaning much easier.
They are sold at 100 yen stores, so be sure to prepare them in advance.
④Installation of filters for ventilation fans and exhaust vents
Be sure to install special filters on your kitchen exhaust fan and gas stove exhaust vents.
Ventilation fans and exhaust vents tend to become covered in dust and oil.
Filters are needed to reduce this contamination.
If it gets dirty, just replace it, so you can easily keep your kitchen clean.
⑤Sink coating
Coat your sink before limescale or mold develops.
Applying a coating agent makes it easier for the surface to repel water and makes it less likely for dirt such as oil, mold, and water stains to adhere to it.
However, if it is a new build or brand new item, it may have a coating applied, so please check in advance.
Bath precautions (⑥-⑨)
⑥ Spray anti-mold agent
Spray a mold inhibitor in the bathroom to prevent mold growth.
There are several types, including spray types and types that emit smoke, which allow you to easily prevent mold.
However, the duration of use varies depending on the product. Use it regularly even after moving in to prevent mold from growing in the bathroom.
7. Use anti-fog on mirrors
Use anti-fog on your bathroom mirror.
There are three types available: liquid, spray, and film, so choose the one that is easiest for you to use.
If you don't use an anti-fog agent, water stains, soap scum, etc. will easily build up and cause fogging. By taking proper measures against fogging, you can eliminate the hassle of cleaning.
⑧ Install a net and garbage collector at the drain
Place a net or garbage disposal over the drain so that you can simply throw away any dirt that gets in the way.
Bathtub drains are difficult to clean because they trap hair and other small debris.
Installing a net or collecting tray will prevent waste from going down the drain, preventing slime and bad odors.
9. Bathtub coating
Coat the bathtub before you move in.
If you clean the bathtub improperly, you may damage the surface, and the more deep the scratches become, the more likely it is that dirt will accumulate.
By applying a protective coating in advance, it helps protect the surface of the bathtub from scratches, stains such as limescale, and mold.
Toilet measures (⑩-⑪)
10. Fill the gap between the toilet and the floor
Fill the gap between the toilet and the floor to prevent odors and stains.
There is a small gap between the toilet bowl and the floor, where water, urine, dust, etc. can easily accumulate and cause odors.
Coating gaps with masking tape or gap gel will prevent odorous stains and make cleaning easier.
⑪ Install a filter on the ventilation fan
You should also install a filter on the bathroom exhaust fan. Many people leave the bathroom exhaust fan running all the time.
When you turn on the exhaust fan, it expels air outside and also expels dust, which causes more dirt to accumulate than you might think.
By installing a filter, you can have a hassle-free ventilation fan.
Measures for the washbasin (⑫-⑭)
⑫Washbasin coating
Don't forget to coat your sink as well. Before you know it, your sink will be dirty with limescale and black spots.
Because the sink is a place where water is used many times a day, limescale will quickly form on it even if you wash it.
By applying a coating to the sink, you can increase the water-repellent properties of the surface and repel water and dirt.
⑬ Mirror anti-fogging
You should also use an anti-fog coating on your bathroom mirror.
Hot water is used frequently in the washbasin, and the steam builds up and sticks to the mirror, causing it to fog up.
If steam fogging is left unattended it will turn into water stain fogging which will be difficult to clean, so it is a good idea to apply an anti-fog treatment before moving in.
⑭ Installation of a washing machine stand with casters
Before moving in your washing machine, set up a washing machine stand with casters .
Once the washing machine is installed, it is difficult to move it.
By installing a washing machine stand with casters, you can pick up small items such as socks that have been dropped behind the washing machine and clean it up.
Pest control measures (⑮-⑯)
⑮Attach insect-proof caps to air conditioner hoses
Attach a mesh insect-repellent cap to the end of your air conditioner's drain hose.
This helps prevent the risk of insects entering the room through the hose.
However, be aware that debris flowing out of the hose can easily become clogged, so be sure to choose one with a coarse mesh.
16. Eliminate pests with pesticides
Use pesticides to eliminate and prevent pests.
It is possible to exterminate pests such as cockroaches, mites, fleas, centipedes, etc. when you find them, and also to prevent insects from coming again.
In particular, the smoke-absorbing material type, which spreads smoke and mist to every corner of the room, is ideal for before moving in when there are no furniture or appliances present.
Measures for the whole room (⑰〜⑳)
⑰Photo/video taking and checking
Take photos and videos of the condition of the room (each area) before you move in and check it.
When you move out, you will need to return the property to its original condition. It is important to keep evidence that you did not make any scratches, holes, or stains before moving in.
When taking photos or videos, we recommend that you check every detail.
⑱Removing stickers from furniture and home appliances
Be sure to remove any stickers from newly purchased furniture and appliances. If stickers are left on for a long period of time, the adhesive will harden and become very difficult to remove.
However, be sure to carefully determine whether or not you need it before peeling it off.
This sticker is necessary for items such as microwave ovens that have information such as the wattage and precautions for use.
⑲Filling in small gaps
Before moving in, be sure to fill in any gaps that concern you, such as in sash grooves, between the floor and wall, and sliding doors.
In particular, the gaps between the floor and the wall can be difficult to fill once furniture and appliances are brought in.
Covering it with masking tape beforehand will prevent dust and dirt from accumulating, making cleaning easier.
⑳Cleaning each room
Clean each room thoroughly before moving in.
No matter how airtight a room is, dust will accumulate after a short time.
Also, if doors and windows are not opened or closed, the room may become humid and have a moldy smell.
That's why we recommend a thorough cleaning and a comfortable new start to your life.
There are many things to do before moving into a rental property, but if you look at them one by one, they're not difficult.
With just a little effort, you can not only keep your room clean and tidy, but it will also make cleaning easier, so we recommend that you prepare one.
The order of procedures and preparation period required before moving into a rental property
Next, let's take a look at the order of procedures and preparation period required before moving into a rental property.
The procedures and preparation period required before moving into a rental property are as follows:
- One month before, mainly arrangements related to moving in
- Various procedures are carried out 1 to 2 weeks before the event.
- The day before, pack and prepare to move your appliances.
- On the day, lifelines were opened and luggage was unpacked.
One month before, mainly arrangements related to moving in
The following procedures should be completed one month before you move in.
- Mover quotes and bookings
- Internet line contract
- Disposal of unwanted items and bulky trash
Mover quotes and bookings
Once you have decided on your move-in date, ask a moving company for a quote and make a reservation.
Even if you inquire at the last minute, there may be cases where the moving company does not have any spaces available, so we recommend that you contact the moving company as soon as your move-in date is decided.
Internet line contract
Apply for an internet connection.
It will take about 2 to 3 weeks from when you sign up for an internet line until you can actually use it.
If you want to use the internet immediately after moving in, you need to apply at least one month before moving in.
Disposal of unwanted items and bulky trash
Disposing of unwanted items and bulky garbage takes time and effort compared to regular garbage, so you should start planning one month in advance.
You can dispose of unwanted items and bulky garbage by inquiring about your local government or using a recycling shop or purchasing service.
Various procedures are carried out 1 to 2 weeks before the event.
One to two weeks before moving in, there are many formalities to complete at government offices and with utilities. While you are packing, you should also complete the following procedures.
- Electricity, gas and water procedures
- Mail forwarding procedures
- Procedures for transferring residence certificate
- Procedures for cancelling seal registration
- National Health Insurance Procedures
- Procedures for changing your landline number
- Transfer Procedures
Electricity, gas and water procedures
Make sure to apply for utilities at least two weeks in advance.
The procedure for activation varies depending on the contract company, so please check the website in advance.
However, since gas is the only item that requires you to be present when it is turned on, make arrangements with the gas company so that you can be there on the day you move in.
Mail forwarding procedures
File a mail forwarding form with your post office so that your mail will be automatically forwarded to your new address.
To complete the procedure, you will need to provide identification such as a driver's license that shows your current address (old address).
The forwarding service is valid for one year, and it takes about a week for the procedure to take effect.
Procedures for transferring residence certificate
Let's go through the procedure to transfer your residence registration.
Please submit a "moving out notification" to the city office of your old residence and receive a "moving out certificate", then submit a "moving in notification" to the city office of your new residence.
The deadline for submitting the change of address notification is within 14 days of moving in.
If you are moving within the same municipality, you only need to submit a "change of address notification" and not a "moving out notification."
For more information on transferring your residence certificate, please refer to the following article:
Procedures for cancelling seal registration
If you have your official seal registered at the municipal office of your previous residence, you will need to go through the process of cancelling the registration.
However, depending on the municipality, if you submit a moving out notification, your seal registration may be automatically cancelled on the moving out date.
It is a good idea to check with your local government to find out whether your seal registration will be automatically transferred on the day you move out.
National Health Insurance Procedures
If you are enrolled in National Health Insurance (NHI), you will need to renew your insurance card.
- If you move to a different municipality: Procedures for losing eligibility for National Health Insurance
- If you move within the same municipality: National Health Insurance "change of address" procedure
Please note that the procedure varies depending on your moving pattern.
Procedures for changing your landline number
If you have a landline phone, you will need to change it.
When moving a landline phone, whether or not construction work is required, the procedures required, and how phone numbers will be handled will vary depending on whether you are moving to a different municipality or within the same municipality.
If you want to use it from the day you move in, it would be best to complete the necessary procedures as soon as your move-in date is decided.
Transfer Procedures
If you are changing schools, you will need to go through the transfer procedures.
If you are attending a public school, tell them that you will be transferring to your current school and have them issue you a "Certificate of Enrollment" and a "Certificate of Textbook Provision."
If you are attending a private school, please check with the school or your prefectural private school association to see if your desired school accepts transfers.
The day before, pack and prepare to move your appliances.
The day before, make the following preparations to ensure the move goes smoothly:
- Finish packing
- Empty the fridge
- Draining the refrigerator and washing machine
- Draining kerosene from oil stoves
- Organize electrical appliance cables
Finish packing
Finish packing the day before you move in.
However, we recommend that you pack the bare necessities you will need on the day, such as daily necessities, a change of clothes, and toiletries, in one cardboard box or bag.
Also, be sure to check the number of cardboard boxes before handing your belongings over to the moving company. In the unlikely event that any items are left behind or lost, you will be able to respond immediately.
Empty the fridge
Make sure to empty the contents of your refrigerator.
During transport, the contents may shift and damage the interior of the container, or liquids may spill and cause breakdowns.
If you have any leftover food, you can store it in a cooler box.
However, if you are moving long distances, there is a risk that food items that cannot be stored at room temperature may spoil, so it is better to dispose of them.
Draining the refrigerator and washing machine
Drain the refrigerator and washing machine.
If water remains in the bag, it can cause your valuables to get wet or lead to breakdowns or other problems.
For both refrigerators and washing machines, the process varies depending on the product. Please check the instruction manual carefully in advance and follow the instructions carefully.
In addition, moving companies may take care of draining the water, so if you are worried about water leakage, please consult with them.
Draining kerosene from oil stoves
If you are using a kerosene heater, drain any remaining kerosene from the container.
Moving companies cannot transport hazardous items, such as stoves that still have kerosene remaining.
Ideally, you should use up all the kerosene before moving, but if that's difficult, drain it all and ask a gas station or similar to take it away.
Organize electrical appliance cables
Keep the cables from home appliances such as televisions, computers, refrigerators, and washing machines organized.
The cables are grouped together as shown below so that you can tell which product each cable belongs to.
- Bundle them together with rubber bands or cable ties and attach them to the appliance itself with masking tape.
- Put the bundled cables in a bag and write the name of the appliance on it.
You can easily identify which appliance the cable belongs to, making wiring in your new home easier.
On the day, lifelines were opened and luggage was unpacked.
The main tasks to be done on the day of move-in are as follows:
- Attending the opening and closing of electricity, gas and water services
- Carrying in and unpacking luggage
- Checking the operation of home appliances and electronic devices
- Greetings to the Neighbors
- Greeting the Manager and Management Office
On the day you move in, first of all, greet your neighbors and apologize for any inconvenience they may cause during the move-in process.
Next, we will give instructions to the moving company and proceed with the procedures to open utilities.
Most properties have electricity and water available for use as soon as you move in, but gas will need to be turned on by a representative from the gas company in your presence.
Once you have finished moving your belongings, it is a good idea to first prepare the daily necessities you will be using that day, such as toiletries, futons, and curtains, and check that all home appliances and electronic devices are working properly.
[Finally] If you want to take time off work to move, the best days are Thursday, Friday, and Monday!
This time, we have explained the minimum things you need to do before moving into a rental property, the necessary procedures, and the preparation period.
When you look at it item by item, there are so many things to do that some people may be at a loss as to how many days it will take to finish.
However, if you are thoroughly prepared before the day of your move, it is possible to complete the move-in process in one day.
However, if it's your first time, it will be difficult to complete it in one day.
If possible, we recommend taking Thursday (the day of the event), Friday, and Monday off.
You can complete things that you weren't able to finish as planned on Thursday and Friday, or things that you noticed again on the weekend, on Monday.
The various paperwork, packing and unpacking is much more difficult than you might imagine. That's why it's important to plan ahead as soon as your move-in date is decided.
