Moving into a new apartment can be an exciting time. A fresh start for your living situation can be just what you need to jump start long put off projects for home decor and organization. Before you dive straight in, there are a few things that will guarantee a smoother move and a higher possibility of getting your deposit back at the end of the year.

Survey the Damages

Unless it’s a brand new apartment community, no apartment will be without its little dents and dings. Really inspect the areas of your apartment that can be deposit thieves, like carpeting, window screens and baseboards. If you find tears, snags, scrapes or cracks, be sure to thoroughly document their locations. If it helps, take pictures of all of the existing damage you discover. These can accompany your damage report so the damages can’t be blamed on you later. Don’t forget to check all of the plumbing in your new apartment. Spotting leaks, running toilets or poor water pressure can save you a lot of trouble down the road. Reporting these problems early on will lead to speedy repairs. This can be especially helpful if your water payment isn’t included in your rent.

Clean

The apartment community will have cleaned your apartment before your arrival, but it’s always a good idea to give your new place some extra attention before moving in your furniture. We’re not talking spring-cleaning style scrubbing. Just a quick once-over with the vacuum and wipe down of countertops and cabinets will do. Windows and sliding doors may accumulate fingerprints throughout the move, so leave them and your Windex alone until after your furniture is in place.

Organize Electronics

After a long day of moving, you’ll probably want to kick back and watch TV or surf the Web. Most moves can take up to a week to really get everything in place. Focus on setting up your television and computer on day one. If you need to mount your TV, be ready with all of the tools and equipment you will need to avoid having to take multiple trips to the store. When you plug everything in, make it easier on yourself by keeping your wires neat. Zip ties are an easy and inexpensive way to bundle cables and wires together neatly.

Change Your Address

If you haven’t done it yet, hop onto your computer and head to an online source for changing your address, like this one with the U.S. Postal Service. The last thing you need after paying deposits and rent is to be slammed with late fees due to bills that never came to your mailbox.

With these little tasks out of the way, you can dedicate your time and efforts to decorating and organizing your new apartment home. Switch on some HGTV, browse for ideas on Pinterest or just let the chips (and furniture) fall where they may. In no time, your apartment will be uniquely you, and a place to call home!