Guides / Deposits and paperwork
Move-in costs and protecting your new deposit
Budget the upfront costs and document the place on day one.
Renting a new place often means paying several months' worth of money at once. Protecting the new deposit starts the day you get the keys.
Upfront costs to budget
- Application fees
- Security deposit
- First month's rent, and sometimes last month's
- Pet deposit or fee
- Renters insurance
- Utility deposits
On move-in day
- Fill in the move-in checklist with every scratch, stain and dent
- Take dated photos and video before you unpack
- Send a copy to the landlord and keep one
- Test smoke detectors, locks, appliances and faucets, and report problems in writing
Watch for
Never send money for a rental you haven't seen in person or through a verified video tour. Rental listing scams often ask for deposits by wire or gift card.
General educational information. Rules and costs vary by state and company. Penny Home Pros isn't paid by any mover, broker or landlord.