Sacramento Move-in Checklist

Moving into a new rental is an exciting chapter, filled with opportunities to make the space your own. However, before you can fully settle in, there are essential tasks to tackle. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure a smooth transition into your new home:

 

Windermere offers an online portal for residents to pay rent, submit maintenance requests, and access important information. This portal is called Appfolio and you'll soon receive an email to gain access to your portal.

 

Check your lease agreement to determine which utilities are your responsibility and which are included in your rent. Contact your current providers to inform them of your move-out date and set up new accounts or transfer services for your new address. Schedule activation dates ahead of your move-in day to avoid interruptions. Windermere will also send you an email by Citizen Solutions as an option to help you set up all your utilities in one place.

 

In Sacramento, the providers for utilities are:

 

Renter’s insurance is required with a minimum liability coverage of $100,000. You have the option to purchase your own renter's insurance and provide us with the proof of coverage, or Windermere will enroll you themselves and add the payment to your monthly bill to be paid with rent. Renter's insurance is a wise investment as it protects your belongings against theft, fire, and other unexpected events. You'll find most common insurance companies offer a renter insurance policy, so shop around for one that fits your needs and budget, then send me the confirmation of coverage letter.

 

Update your address with the post office to forward your mail. Notify banks, credit card companies, subscription services, and other important contacts about your new address. Don’t forget to update your address on your driver’s license if required by your state.

 

Before unpacking, thoroughly inspect the property for any damages or maintenance issues. Document these findings on the move-in inspection form provided through your resident portal. Taking photos or videos of the space is also a good idea for your records. This must be done when you initially move in, or you may be held responsible for any differing conditions from what appears on the move-in inspection.

 

Unpacking and arranging your belongings can make your new rental feel like home. Start with essentials like your bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen. Take your time to decorate and personalize the space to reflect your style and make it comfortable.

 

Familiarize yourself with essential features of your new home, such as the circuit breaker, water shut-off valve, and thermostat. Knowing how to access and operate these features can be invaluable in case of an emergency.

 

Your new home likely brings new schedules, procedures, and policies. This includes trash and recycling schedules, maintenance request processes through your resident portal, parking rules and possible street cleaning schedules, smoking rules, or guest policies as detailed in the lease agreement.

 

I encourage you to meet your neighbors early on. The number one complaint I get from tenants pertains to neighbor relationships. Taking a bit of time to introduce yourself before a problem or misunderstanding arises might help avoid or de-escalate a situation if one does come up. Some neighbors are particular about parking, some about noise, others are easy going and fun to live by. Get to know them and be respectful, consider exchanging contact information for emergencies. They can also provide helpful tips about the neighborhood.

 

As a disclosure, Windermere nor I will get involved in disputes between adults and we cannot take any action without a police report.

 

Take time to explore your surroundings and locate nearby amenities like grocery stores, parks, gyms, and restaurants. I'm a local of the area and am happy to provide recommendations for anything you need. If there is a place you had an exceptionally great experience with, I would love to hear about it to recommend it with others.