Moving out of your student housing soon? Read this step-by-step guide.
From cleaning up to paperwork, moving out could feel like a never-ending chore. Whether you are moving out to study in another city, subletting your room for a semester abroad, or simply changing scenery, stick around and read our guide to make the transition much easier.
Let’s cover the basics so you can confidently hand in your keys:
The essential moving out checklist
- Check your contract for the process of termination – look at the period of notice and details for the official moving out procedure (e.g. scheduling an inspection, deposit return, etc.).
- Pack well in advance to make sure you calculate the space in your luggage and any extra packages you are sending back home.
- Cancel additional services or utilities – applicable only if not included in the rent payment.
- Deep clean the property, this will show that you respect the property and will secure your deposit return.
- Take photos of the property – document the condition of the property before you move out to ensure that future damages are not attributable to your stay.
Thinking about subletting instead of moving out?
What is subletting?
Subletting allows the tenant to rent out the property for a selected period of time while their name remains on the rental contract. While you are legally responsible for the place, someone else lives in it and pays the rent for the chosen duration.
Why should you sublet your room?
- When going abroad on an exchange, taking a semester off or going away for the summer, subletting is a perfect opportunity to save some money but keep your place.
- You can help another student with housing.
Here is a checklist for things to keep in mind:
- Get a written permission from your landlord – always check the terms and conditions in your contract, because sometimes Dutch housing contracts may not allow subletting.
- Rely on a written agreement between you and the short-term tenant. Make sure to specify the duration of the stay, the rent amount, and other obligations that will protect you and the property.
- Choose a subtenant carefully – even for a short time, it is best to have someone trustworthy.
- Pro tip! – Domakin offers a verified network of students looking for accommodation. You can count on us to find someone to take over and take care of your space while you are away. We will also prepare the subrenting agreement, so that no important detail is left out.
Regardless of the duration of your absence, Domakin can be your friend when moving out:
- Use our website to list your room in minutes.
- Choose from a verified network of students
- Earn 200 euros when someone rents or subrents your room through us.
Moving out is no easy task, but with this checklist and a little help from Domakin, it becomes a piece of cake. Moving out soon and feeling overwhelmed in the process? Contact us for assistance.
