A Move-In Checklist for Renting in Georgetown, DC

Moving into a new apartment is mostly a list of small tasks that are easy to forget. Here is a checklist for a Georgetown lease, in the order most people need it.

Before you sign

• Get the full monthly cost in writing: rent, parking, pet charges and any required fees.
• Confirm the move-in date, lease term and what happens at renewal.
• Ask which utilities are in your name and which are billed through the building.
• Walk the exact unit you will lease and take photos of its condition.

Two to four weeks before

• Set up internet and any utilities you pay directly, with a start date that matches your move-in.
• Buy renter’s insurance. Many leases require it, and it covers your belongings and liability.
• Reserve the elevator or loading time with the building, if required.
• Measure your largest furniture against doors and elevators.

Move-in week

• Do a walk-through and report any damage in writing right away.
• Learn where the package room, trash and recycling, laundry and bike storage are.
• Save the maintenance request process and the after-hours number.

First month

• Update your address with your bank, employer, insurer and the post office.
• If you own a car, check DC registration and residential parking permit rules with the DC DMV and DDOT.
• Check your voter registration if you moved within the city or into it.
• Calendar your lease dates, including the renewal notice window.

Making it easier

Furniture and storage can be added to a lease. See our Upgrades page for what is offered. And if you are comparing buildings, our guide to renting in Georgetown lists what to ask on a tour.

Schedule a tour of The Ledger on 29th, browse residences or see what is open on the Available Apartments page.

Equal Housing Opportunity.