Although there are no formal rules when changing addresses, the code of ethics of the good mover can be summed up in one word: housekeeping. But still ? Moving and organizing experts have other caring ideas to share for July 1st.
The Quebec platform MovingWaldo is a technology company specializing in moving planning. The site also publishes lists of tasks to be carried out before departure. Among them, it is recommended to clean your accommodation before leaving it. This rule also applies to the exterior of the property.
“Mow the lawn before you go or make sure the pool isn’t green.” When you have maintained your pool for 20 years, you are able to add a final dose of chlorine,” says Philippe Tardif-Michaud, co-founder of MovingWaldo.
In addition to a good cleaning, the moving pro Pierre-Olivier Cyr, of Clan Panneton, reminds us to empty everything. “Instead of throwing things away, people leave things on the spot,” he observes. They leave large pieces of furniture and even appliances. It can cost new owners thousands of dollars to get rid of. »
“You have to pick up your trash, empty the bins and, if necessary, go to the ecocentre,” adds professional organizer Sarah Barrette.
To avoid frustration, Pierre-Olivier Cyr suggests making a list of items you no longer want, then contacting future occupants before D-Day to offer them.
If the unwritten rule is that you leave nothing behind, all the experts interviewed encourage the former occupants to offer some basic elements. A box of tissues, a roll of toilet paper, paper towels, a garbage bag or even a bag of ice cubes in the freezer could help both movers and those who are moving in.
Another item to leave behind: paint cans. They will allow new occupants to make touch-ups without having to repaint everything. Daniella Condello of Bienrangé recommends clearly labeling each jar and, again, throwing out the stale ones.
Do we have to use the paint one last time to repair the walls before we leave? Not necessarily according to Pierre-Olivier Cyr, who especially recommends sealing large holes. “You see so many disappointed new owners when they move in and see the house empty for the first time,” he observes. They are doing all the work for the next few months to make the place to their liking. Plugging a few holes before leaving can reduce disappointments and keep the house clean. »
Among other kind gestures, organizer Daniella Condello recommends leaving user guides for all devices in the house in plain sight and checking the batteries of smoke detectors before departure. “New owners may not know how the oven works,” she says. It’s a simple gesture that can save your life. »
Pierre-Olivier Cyr goes even further. He suggests making sure all appliances are working and even having them professionally inspected before moving. “It’s going to cost you money, but it saves you trouble,” he adds.
Another kind gesture: provide your list of neighborhood contacts. “Mention that there is a handyman nearby who can help or a trusted babysitter for the children. There’s really no other way to find out than by trial and error. We can leave a small list,” advises Philippe Tardif-Michaud.
Why not indicate on this list the day of the waste and recycling collection, the name of the telecommunications providers in the neighborhood or even its new address? If ever the change was not done correctly, everyone will be grateful.
During her last move, Daniella Condello also left the flyers of nearby restaurants in plain view. “When you’re in clubs and you don’t know the area, it saves time,” she says.
And why not book parking? This detail is essential for the occupants of a condo and sometimes unavoidable in certain streets. If it is necessary to reserve the elevator of the building for the move, the future owner will no doubt be grateful to you for informing him and helping him to reserve his time slot. “It has happened to me that movers have to wait eight hours in the truck to be able to use the elevator, says Pierre-Olivier Cyr. It’s expensive! »
