Moving Out: A Smooth Check-Out & Deposit Recovery Guide
The check-out process is the final step of your journey in Shanghai. To ensure the full return of your security deposit and a positive reference for your next home, a structured departure is essential.
At Here | Housing & Coliving Solutions, we assist our clients in closing their lease just as carefully as they opened it. Here is how to navigate your move-out.
1. 📆 Schedule Your Appointment Early
Coordinate with your landlord and your Here agent at least two weeks before your move-out date. Scheduling the check-out during daylight hours is best for a clear inspection of the property’s condition.
2. 🔎 The Final Walkthrough Inspection
This is the moment of truth. Conduct a room-by-room walkthrough with the landlord.
Fair Wear and Tear: Differentiate between "fair wear and tear" (expected aging) and "damage."
Professional Support: Our team helps mediate these conversations to ensure you aren't unfairly charged for minor age-related issues.
3. 📋 Comparing the Original Inventory Report
Refer back to the Inventory and Condition Report signed at move-in.
Verification: Confirm all items listed (appliances, furniture, etc.) are present and in the same condition as when you arrived.
Documentation: Both parties should sign a "Closing Statement" or a final version of the report to acknowledge the handover is complete.
4. 👨🔧 Cleaning & Minor Repairs
A clean apartment is the fastest way to a returned deposit.
Deep Clean: We recommend hiring a professional cleaning service. A spotless flat leaves a great impression and minimizes landlord complaints.
Repairs: Replace any burnt-out lightbulbs and repair minor damages (like small holes in walls) before the landlord arrives for the inspection.
5. ⚡️ Final Utility Settlement
Ensure all outstanding balances are paid.
Meter Readings: Take final photos of the water, electricity, and gas meters.
Settlement: Show proof of your final payments on Alipay or WeChat Pay. Don't forget to cancel or transfer your internet subscription to your new address.
6. 🔑 The Official Key Return
Hand over all sets of physical keys and electronic access cards.
Access Check: Remember to include keys for mailboxes, storage units, and compound gates. Once keys are handed over, your legal possession of the property ends.
7. 💰 Securing Your Security Deposit
The most critical step. Discuss the timeline for the deposit return.
The Standard: Deposits are usually returned via bank transfer or digital payment within 7 to 14 days after move-out, minus any agreed-upon deductions for repairs or unpaid bills.
Receipts: Ensure you have a written record of the agreed-upon refund amount.
8. 📬 Providing a Forwarding Address
Leave your new contact details and bank information with the landlord. This ensures that any final mail or the deposit refund reaches you without delay.
9. 📑 Lease Obligation Review
Ensure all "fapiao" (tax invoices) have been issued and that there are no remaining contractual obligations. If you had a "diplomatic clause," ensure all supporting documents were provided.
10. ✅ Final "Here" Confirmation
Before you leave, your Here | Housing & Coliving specialist will do a final check to ensure the property is locked and all windows are closed. You are now ready for your next chapter!
Need Help Closing Your Lease?
The team at Here | Housing & Coliving is dedicated to making your transition as seamless as possible.
📧 Contact us for move-out support: hello@hereici.com
🌐 Visit us: www.hereici.com
