Moving into a new place is always a mix of excitement and nerves. You finally have the keys, and then there’s nothing quite as nice as the prospect of installing your own furniture, lining up your books, and making the apartment your home. But before you light that first scented candle or invite friends over for a housewarming, below are a few things you’ll want to check off. Renting comes with its own set of details, and a bit of due diligence in advance can avert trouble down the line.

Think of this as your renter’s pre-move-in checklist—the small but important things that make sure you’re not only comfortable but also protected.

1. Do a Walkthrough Before Unpacking

Before the boxes take over, walk through the entire apartment or house with fresh eyes. Inspect the walls, floors, ceilings and fixtures. Keep an eye on cracks, stains, or damage that were not present when you first saw the place. When there is something outstanding, capture photos. Having proof from day one can save you from being blamed later when you move out.

2. Test All Appliances and Fixtures

You might feel weird having to switch on every stove burner or every toilet, but trust me—it’s worth it. Make sure the oven gets hot, the refrigerator stays cold, faucets don’t drip, and the showerhead doesn’t feel weak. Address issues you notice right away with your landlord. Better now than having a broken washing machine on wash day.

3. Locate the Essentials: Breaker Box and Water Shut-Off

You never think about the breaker box until the lights suddenly go out. The same goes with the water shut-off valve—the instant a pipe leaks. Before you get cozy, figure out where these are. You don’t want to be scurrying around frantically with water pooling on the floor.

4. Check the Locks and Windows

Your peace of mind is priceless. Test every latch on the doors and see if there’s smart home security set up. If you’re unsatisfied with locks as they are, ask if you can get them rekeyed. A safe rental means better sleep at night.

5. Inspect Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

These small devices don’t receive enough recognition, yet they have the potential to save your life. Try them out immediately. If they lack batteries or are inoperable, inform your landlord immediately. Some tenants even pack a set of new batteries in order to be on the safe side.

6. Take Photos of Meter Readings

When you first move in, photograph the gas, electric, and water meter readings. Then, you won’t be responsible for the former tenant’s consumption. That’s a small step that protects your wallet.

7. Review the Lease One More Time

You may have already read it before you signed it, but review your lease again. Double-check guest, pet, parking, and maintenance regulations. The small print often contains details that can affect how you live on a day-to-day basis. Better be clear now than be surprised later.

8. Get Renter’s Insurance

It may look like an additional cost, but renter insurance can be quite cheap and covers your belongings in case of theft, fire, or accidents. Suppose a water pipe bursts in your apartment, damaging your laptop and couch. In that case, insurance like Lemonade renters insurance can save you from paying out of pocket.

You can also pay a little extra to get more protection for things (items not included in a basic policy) like jewelry, art, cameras, bicycles, etc. With this extra coverage, claims for these items are processed with a $0 deductible and extend to accidental loss and damage.

9. Make Sure You Have a Move-In Condition Report

Virtually all landlords provide a condition report. This form details how the property is when you’re first moving in. Don’t skip over it- read it thoroughly, mark down everything, and include your own pictures if you can. This small piece of paper is how you’ll be sure you receive all of your security deposit back later.

10. Test Internet and Cell Signal

It’s the 21st century, and a home with no good Internet or cell coverage can easily make you crazy. You’ll want to make sure that your internet plan can be easily installed before you unpack your desk, and test it out by walking around and seeing if your phone gets good coverage in every room.

11. Meet the Neighbors and Get a Feel for the Area

Moving isn’t just about the walls you live in, but it’s also the humans living around you. A simple “hello” to the neighbors goes a long way. They may clue you in on the best coffee spot nearby or help you in case of a dire emergency. And you’ll also have an idea on how the area typically feels.

12. Clean Before You Settle In

Although the place may seem clean, adding your personal touch of cleaning makes it feel fresh. Clean shelves, disinfect countertops, and scrub the bathroom. It’s easier to do this before all your furniture is in place, and it gives you peace of mind knowing everything is really clean.

Final Thoughts

Moving into a new rental is a fresh chapter. It’s exciting to decorate, explore the neighborhood, and make it feel like home. But before the fun starts, a little checklist like this helps you avoid future stress. Think of it as setting the foundation for your time there. Once you’ve gone through these steps, you can relax and truly settle in, knowing you’ve covered all the important bases.