Factors to Consider

The following is for information only and should not be taken as law.
Please refer to the appropriate jurisdiction in your area.

Consider The Following:

• Affordability, The rent plus rental expenses, electrical, heat and hot water, cablevision, telephone, ideally should not exceed 40% of your income. (Rents are too high? We need rent control! – The Landlord's Goldmine.)
• Type of dwelling, What type of dwelling suits you best, apartment, condo, townhouse, duplex, single dwelling?
• Reputable landlord, Is the building well maintained? If a private residence, is the rental unit registered with the municipality. All too often cheaper rent comes back to bite you when things go wrong with the tenancy.
• Size of dwelling unit, Does the size and number of bedrooms meet your needs?
• Neighborhood, Who are the people in your neighborhood? Will you and your children ‘fit in’? Is the neighborhood safe? Take a walk around before renting, talk to people who live there.
• Proximity to transit, How far to alternate transportation for you or your children?
• Proximity to shopping, Is the basic shopping to which you are accustomed, close or convenient?
• Proximity to schools, Will you need to drive to schools, will that be convenient? How far is the walk?
• Hobbies and recreation, Do you like to garden? Is there adequate space for you and/or your children to play.
• What amenities and/or services does the landlord supply? Rec room, swimming pool, playground, heat, hot water, laundry facilities, parking, etc.
• What are the costs and inconveniences you will face to move?
• You will need to give 1 clear month notice to your present landlord. In most jurisdictions that means on the last day of the month for the last day of the following month, although most landlords will accept notice on the 1st day of the month.
• Note:   In B.C., a tenancy begins as of 12;00 noon on the 1st day of the month, unless otherwise stated in the rental agreement, and ends as of 1:00 pm on the last day of the month. More on ending a tenancy later.
• You will need to inform utility companies, electricity, cablevision, phone, and often have to pay a re-connection fee.
• You will also need to inform insurance companies, your drivers license, your bank, and several others of your new address.
• You should also file a redirection of mail notice at the post office.
• Moving trucks can be costly especially if you hire movers. Be sure to book a moving company or a truck rental as early as possible so you can guarantee your move time. More on Hiring a Mover They Promised 10 AM
• Caution Do not sign off on the moving companies contract after the move until you have inspected all your belongings for breakage or missing items. Once you sign off, there is very little recourse in settling a claim against the moving company.
• Check with your insurance company if your possessions are covered during the move or if there is a rider you can purchase for your possessions during moving.