New Renter Checklist: Do’s & Don’ts for a Smooth Move-In (and Happy Lease)

Welcome to your new place 🎉

Moving into an apartment should feel exciting—not overwhelming. Whether you’re a first-time renter or returning to Southfield, this new renter checklist covers the essentials: lease terms, renter’s insurance, deposits, utilities, maintenance requests, and neighbor etiquette. Use it before, during, and after move-in to keep surprises to a minimum and your budget on track.

The Do’s: Set yourself up for success

Do read your lease—twice

Highlight rent due dates, grace periods, utilities you pay vs. management pays, guest and subletting rules, parking policy, pet policy, and renewal/notice timelines. Snap photos of key pages for quick reference.

Do get renter’s insurance before key pickup

Most Michigan apartments (including many Southfield apartments) require it. Policies are inexpensive and cover your belongings and liability if accidents happen. Keep your policy number handy for the leasing office.

Do document your apartment on Day 1

Take time-stamped photos/videos of each room, appliances, windows, and closets. Email the album link to yourself with subject “Move-In Condition – [Address/Unit #]” so it’s easy to retrieve at move-out when your security deposit is on the line.

Do set up your utilities early

Confirm which utilities you activate (electric, gas, internet) and which are handled by the community. Schedule installations before move-in day to avoid downtime.

Do learn the maintenance process

Save the renter portal link and emergency number. Submit work orders right away—especially for leaks, heat/AC issues, or electrical problems. The faster you report it, the easier and cheaper it is to fix.

Do meet your onsite team & neighbors

Introduce yourself to the leasing staff and maintenance techs; they’re your best resource for building logistics. A quick hello to neighbors goes a long way in building a friendly, community-minded floor.

Do understand amenities and access

Learn hours and rules for the fitness center, pool, package lockers, laundry rooms, and any controlled-access features (gates, fobs). Knowing the rhythms avoids accidental violations.

The Don’ts: Avoid costly mistakes

Don’t DIY risky repairs

If it plugs in, powers water, or needs a ladder—submit a maintenance request. Unauthorized repairs can create safety hazards or violate your lease.

Don’t ignore small fees

Late fees, parking tickets, pet registration, and storage add up. If something looks off, ask the office to review your ledger before the next billing cycle.

Don’t skip notice requirements

Planning to transfer, add a roommate, or renew your lease? Check the required notice period (often 30–60 days). Missing the window can limit options or add fees.

Don’t forget pet paperwork

Bring vaccination records, registration forms, and any breed/weight documentation. Confirm pet rent, deposits, and dog-park rules if available.

Don’t block hallways or elevators on move-in day

Reserve a service elevator (if applicable), protect floors/walls, and follow posted moving hours. It’s considerate—and sometimes required.

Your Move-In Timeline (Save this!)

30 days before

• Compare internet options and schedule install

• Request time off work (if needed)

• Order essentials: shower curtain, trash cans, cleaning kit, outlet strips, curtains, command hooks

7–10 days before

• Confirm renter’s insurance start date

• Set up utilities that require activation

• Book the service elevator or loading dock (if applicable)

• Start change-of-address with USPS, bank, payroll

Move-in day

• Pick up keys/fobs and parking permits

• Walk-through with your condition checklist + photos

• Locate breakers, water shutoff, and emergency contacts

• Test smoke/CO detectors and appliances

First week

• Submit any maintenance tickets you noted

• Learn trash/recycling and bulk-item rules

• Introduce yourself to neighbors and staff

• Explore amenities and review hours

Money & Documents: Quick reference

• Security deposit & fees: Track what’s refundable vs. non-refundable. Save all receipts.

• Renters insurance: Keep policy number + claims contact in your phone and email.

• Payment methods: Set up autopay in your resident portal (with alerts).

• Move-out expectations: Ask for a prep checklist now so you know how to leave the unit “broom clean,” avoid last-minute charges, and protect your deposit.

Community Etiquette (Makes life better)

• Noise: Observe quiet hours; use rugs/felt pads to reduce sound transfer.

• Parking: Park only in your assigned/approved areas; mind guest rules.

• Packages: Pick up promptly; don’t tailgate into controlled-access areas.

• Shared spaces: Wipe down machines in the fitness center; follow pool rules.

• Safety: Report burned-out lights, damaged doors, or suspicious activity immediately.

FAQs (New Renter Edition)

Q: Do I need renter’s insurance if I don’t own much?A: Yes—policies often cost less than a streaming subscription and cover liability, which protects you if someone is injured in your home.

Q: How fast should I submit maintenance requests?A: Immediately—especially for water, electricity, heat/AC, or entry/lock issues. Early reporting prevents damage and speeds resolution.

Q: Can I pay rent online?A: ORLO managed apartments use a resident portal for payments, maintenance, and announcements. Enable reminders to avoid late fees.

Q: How do roommate changes work?A: Check your lease. Most communities require management approval and an application for any new adult occupant before they move in.

Ready to put this checklist to work?

Connect with ORLO today to learn about availability at our properties!

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Disclaimer: Policies, fees, eligibility, availability, and amenities may vary by ORLO property and are subject to change without notice. This blog provides general information only and is not legal advice. For specific guidelines, terms, and the most current details (including lease provisions, pet rules, parking, insurance, utilities, and move-in/move-out procedures), please contact the community directly.