Move-In Day!

Don’t let move-in day stress you out! Check out our essential action steps for starting out life off campus in a positive, stress-free way!

Document ALL Damages or Issues

• Take pictures or a video walk-through of each room

• Take pictures/video of any pre-existing damages before moving in furniture

• Email documentation (pictures, videos) to your property manager/landlord — date/timestamps are key!

• WHY DO THIS? You could be held responsible for any pre-existing damages and could lose your security deposit

Immediately Reach Out

• If damages are found, reach out to your landlord/property manager ASAP in writing (email)

• Remember: Time weakens your case if legal action needs to be taken! We can’t stress this enough — time is so important as a tenant

(Re)Set Expectations

• If you haven’t already, you need to have a roommate conversation about House Logistics and Norms

• Individual vs. shared household expenses:

  • Bills

  • Groceries

  • Household items in communal spaces (toilet paper, dish soap, etc.)

  • Does this stress you out? Consider an App to help out the house

• Chore expectations & schedule tracking ideas:

  • Spreadsheet

  • Whiteboard in a communal space

  • Chore tracking apps

Enjoy off campus life!

• Live in the moment and celebrate — you did it!

• Introduce yourself to your neighbors

  • Need more tips on how to be a good neighbor? Check out our resource guide

• Explore your new neighborhood and all it has to offer

• Follow @CollegeLifeEastLansing on Instagram and TikTok for tips on living off campus and updates on local events!

Want to have our move-in day tips handy on move-in day? Check out our printable PDF below.

• View and download as a PDF