Picture this: you’re halfway to your new home when you realize you left your favorite coffee maker behind. Or worse, your landlord calls to ask why the freezer is full of melted popsicles. Skipping a final walkthrough can lead to regrets, surprise costs, or even strained relationships. Here’s why that last trip through your old home is an absolute must—and how to make it count.
1. Catch the Things You Forgot
You think you’ve packed everything, but have you? Those sneaky spots like the back of the pantry or the cabinets above the fridge love hiding stuff.
• Check every nook and cranny: Closets, drawers, and shelves are prime hiding spots for forgotten items.
• Look under and behind furniture: That lost sock or the remote you thought was gone forever might make a last-minute appearance.
• Pro Tip: Don’t forget the attic, basement, and garage. These are easy to overlook in the moving frenzy.
2. Avoid Extra Charges
If you’re moving out of a rental, leaving the place in less-than-ideal condition could cost you your security deposit.
• Clean as you go: Bring cleaning supplies and give each room a quick wipe-down before leaving.
• Fix minor issues: Fill nail holes and replace burned-out lightbulbs. It’s the little things that make a big difference to landlords.
• Pro Tip: Take photos of the cleaned space as evidence in case of disputes.
3. Double-Check Appliances and Utilities
No one wants to be remembered as the person who left the fridge door open or the oven on.
• Turn off everything: Check all lights, faucets, and appliances. Make sure the water and gas are shut off if needed.
• Empty appliances: Remove food from the fridge and freezer, and leave the doors slightly ajar to prevent mold.
• Pro Tip: If your washer or dishwasher has water left in it, run a quick drain cycle before unplugging.
4. Protect Important Documents
Moving day is chaotic, and it’s easy to accidentally leave behind important paperwork or personal items.
• Check drawers and file cabinets: Make sure you have everything, from your kids’ school records to your pet’s vaccination forms.
• Secure valuables: Double-check for passports, jewelry, and other items you can’t replace.
• Pro Tip: Keep your most critical documents and valuables in a single, easy-to-carry bag.
5. Avoid Awkward Conversations
You don’t want the new homeowners or landlord calling to ask, “Did you mean to leave a pile of junk in the garage?”
• Dispose of trash properly: Don’t leave behind random items or garbage.
• Be considerate: If you’re leaving something intentionally (like extra paint or furniture), communicate this with the new occupants.
• Pro Tip: A little goodwill goes a long way. A clean, empty space leaves a positive impression.
6. Stay Stress-Free at Your New Place
Knowing you left your old home in good shape makes settling into your new one easier.
• No surprises, no stress: You won’t be scrambling to retrieve forgotten items or dealing with angry phone calls.
• Start fresh: Moving on with peace of mind sets the tone for a great new chapter.
• Pro Tip: Use your walkthrough as a symbolic “goodbye” to the space—it’s a surprisingly satisfying moment.
A final walkthrough might feel like just one more thing to do on a busy day, but it’s worth the time and effort. It helps you catch forgotten items, avoid unexpected costs, and leave on good terms with landlords or new owners.
So before you hand over the keys, take one last, thorough look around. Your coffee maker—and your future self—will thank you!
