1. Off-Campus Student Living Guide
  2. Moving In

Moving In

Moving can feel overwhelming, but a few simple steps make the process smoother and help protect you as a tenant.

 

Perform an incoming inspection on your house

When you move into a new place, whether you're living there right away or not, you should complete an incoming inspection to document the unit's condition.

  • Create a detailed move-in report for your landlord, noting any damage, wear, or issues.
  • Some landlords will do a walk-through with you and provide their own inspection form. Ensure you do your own form as well. If not, you can use the Incoming-Outgoing Inspection Comparison Chart (PDF, 276KB) to guide your documentation. This chart is intended to either supplement the landlord’s efforts or guide tenants whose landlord does not provide a form.
  • If you arrive and find furniture, garbage or belongings left behind, contact your landlord immediately. Give a verbal report of what you found. Follow up in writing with a summary of the issue and what you expect to be resolved. Keep copies of all communication.
  • Remember, every tenant has the right to a home that is clean and ready for immediate occupancy.

Secure liability and property insurance

  • Having insurance is an essential part of renting.​
  • ​As a tenant, you are responsible for getting your own must obtain their own liability insurance and contents insurance.
    • Liability insurance protects you if accidental damage occurs in your unit.
    • Contents insurance covers your personal belongings (things like laptops, furniture, clothing and electronics).
  • Your landlord's insurance only covers the building itself. While their liability coverage may overlap with yours, their property insurance does not cover anything inside your unit. Without your own insurance, your personal belongings are not protected.
  • If your lease states that tenant insurance is required, you must obtain it as part of your rental agreement.
  • If tenant insurance is not listed as a requirement in your lease, it is still strongly recommended. Having your own insurance protects you and your belongings in situations where your landlord's policy does not.

Make sure your house is up to code

  • An abbreviated Property Code Guide can be found in the downloadable housing resources package. This guide can help you understand the basic safety and maintenance standards your rental should meet.
  • If your home doesn't meet code requirements, put your repair request in writing to your landlord and keep a copy for your records.
  • If the issue isn't resolved within a reasonable timeframe, the OCLA office can offer guidance and connect you with the appropriate resources for further support.

Know your tenant's rights

Understanding your rights and responsibilities is an important part of renting.

  • Visit our Tenant Tips page to learn more, or schedule an appointment with the for additional guidance.
  • In Ontario, the relationship between landlords and tenants is governed by the . The RTA outlines your rights and responsibilities, as well as those for your landlord.
  • If you need more information or have questions about your situation, you can contact the at 1-888-332-3234.

Moving in sustainably

Small choices can make your move-in more environmentally friendly and budget-friendly. Choose reusable containers when possible or ask local businesses for free cardboard boxes.

Avoid leaving vehicles idling while loading or unloading.

Buy used items to save money and reduce waste. Wait on making big purchases unit you've coordinated with your housemates.

Visit the Second-Hand Shuffle page to learn about the Queen's waste-reduction initiative that takes place at the end of April. It's a great opportunity for students to pick up free items for their new place.