This logo isn't an ad or affiliate link. It's an organization that shares in our mission, and empowered the authors to share their insights in Byte form.
Rumie vets Bytes for compliance with our
Standards.
The organization is responsible for the completeness and reliability of the content.
Learn more
about how Rumie works with partners.
Moving into your first apartment is an exciting step in your life!
You’ll enjoy the freedom that comes with having your very own place and you can get to decorate it the way you want.
Before you get carried away buying dozens of throw pillows, you'll need to know the essential things to include in your first apartment checklist.
✅ Do It
Lease Agreement
The landlord or management should provide you with a lease agreement.
Read it carefully and ask for clarification before signing it. This agreement outlines the conditions for the lease and can protect you.
Make sure to get a copy of the lease for yourself.
Utilities
Want to take a bath in your new apartment? Or turn on the lights in the evening? These services are called utilities.
Check your lease agreement and talk to your landlord about whether or not these services are included or if you'll have to set them up yourself:
Water
Electricity
Heating/Cooling
Internet
Cable TV
Insurance
Find renter's/tenant insurance before you move in. This insurance will protect you and your belongings.
Read this Byte to learn how you can choose the right tenant insurance.
Address
Contact all the people and organizations who need to be informed of your address change.
Bank and credit card company
Driver's license
Your employer
Subscription services
Did you know?
✅ Plan It
Congratulations! You've taken care of the paperwork and can now move on to the more exciting stuff on your first apartment checklist.
Depending on your living arrangements, you might need to purchase some furniture and household items.
Shopping is always fun, but first:
Think about your needs before your wants
Make a list of all the items you need
Set a budget for yourself
Who's Ready for their First Apartment?
Gavin
Moving in with a friend
Has all of his clothes packed and ready to go
Frankie
Moving into her own apartment
Sets up internet, cable, utilities, and insurance
Shivita
Moving in with a roommate
Signs all the papers
Starts shopping
Feng
Moving into his own apartment
Sets up his internet and cable
Makes a shopping list
Quiz
Who is most ready for their first apartment?
Moving in is exciting, but it's really important to sort out the important details before moving in. Gavin should check with his friend to see what he'll need. Making a list will help Shivita monitor her purchases. Feng is almost there — he needs to make sure he has insurance and utilities.
✅ Find It
Finally, just before hitting the stores:
Check if there’s any furniture that comes with the apartment
Find items that you may already have or that friends/family can give you
And now...
Furniture
Bed and mattress
Couches and chairs
Coffee table
Side table
Dining table
Desk/Workspace
Cleaning Supplies
Vacuum or broom
Mop
Cleaning products
Detergent (dish and laundry)
Kitchen and Bathroom
Pots and pans
Utensils
Cutting boards
Plates and cups
Shower curtain
Garbage cans
First Aid/Safety
Fire extinguisher and smoke detector
First aid kit
Digital thermometer
Pain relief
Use this detailed first apartment checklist to help you!
Did you know?
Take Action
You're on your way!
This Byte has been authored by
Fadek Taki
Learning Designer | Educator