Moving Checklist for Ontario Renters.
Interactive moving checklist for Ontario renters. Track your progress from 8 weeks before moving day to settling into your new home.
4–8 Weeks Before
- Review your budget for the new place
- Give written notice to current landlord (if applicable)
- Start decluttering — donate, sell, or discard
- Forward mail through Canada Post
- Research and book movers (or rent a truck)
- Update address with CRA, banks, and subscriptions
- Get renter’s insurance (or transfer existing policy)
- Book elevator/loading dock at both buildings
Book movers and elevator time as early as possible — especially for end-of-month moves. The last weekend of every month is peak moving time in the GTA, and slots fill up fast.
2 Weeks Before
- Confirm moving company or truck rental
- Start packing non-essential items
- Deep clean current unit (or book cleaners)
- Transfer or set up utilities (hydro, gas, internet, water)
- Measure doorways and rooms at new place
- Request lock change at new unit (if allowed)
Set up utilities before your move-in date to avoid arriving to a unit with no power or internet. Toronto Hydro, Enbridge, and internet providers often need 5–10 business days to process new accounts.
Moving Week
- Finish packing — label all boxes by room
- Defrost fridge 24 hours before moving
- Disassemble large furniture
- Confirm elevator booking at both buildings
- Photograph current unit condition (for deposit return)
Photographing your current unit’s condition before you leave is critical. Without documentation, disputes over the last month’s rent deposit or damage claims become your word against the landlord’s.
Moving Day
Document everything with photos and video before handing over keys.
Record meter readings at both units to avoid billing disputes.
Check inventory against your list and note any damage during transit.
Note any existing damage before your belongings go in — this protects you from being held responsible later.
After You Move
- Unpack essentials first (bedding, toiletries, kitchen basics)
- Update driver’s licence with new address
- Register for OHIP if new to Ontario
- Introduce yourself to building superintendent
- Document any existing damage in writing to landlord within 7 days
Documenting your new unit’s condition within the first week is one of the most important things you can do as a renter. Take photos and video of every room, and email them to your landlord with a written description. This protects you when you eventually move out.
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