Moving into Your Melbourne Student Pad: A Step-by-Step Checklist

Moving into a student apartment in Melbourne is an important starting point in the life of studying abroad. Thorough preparations before moving in also play a crucial role in starting a wonderful study life. A detailed check-in checklist can not only help you smoothly settle into your new home, but also ensure your rights and interests are protected, avoiding unnecessary disputes in the future. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide to moving in, covering key steps from signing the contract, inspecting the condition of the accommodation, to setting up water and electricity networks, helping you easily start your study and life journey in Melbourne. Whether you are a first-time undergraduate student abroad, a postgraduate student who has been living in Melbourne for many years, or even a local student, this list will provide you with practical reference and support.

1. Preparations Before Check-In

a) Review the Ingoing Condition Report

When moving into an off-campus Melbourne student accommodation, you will receive an occupancy status report before check in. This report records the condition of the apartment on the day you move in, including the walls, floors, windows, furniture, appliances, etc. You are responsible for verifying the accuracy of the report content, signing it within the prescribed time and returning it to the intermediary or landlord. When moving out, the agent or landlord will assess the condition of the flat based on this report and decide whether to deduct the deposit.

b) Confirm The Terms of The Lease Contract

Before signing the lease contract, be sure to read the contract terms carefully, including the rent amount, payment method, lease term, deposit amount, utility bills included or not, payment method of utility bills, maintenance responsibility, etc. Make sure you understand your rights and obligations to avoid disputes in the future.

c) Arrange Services Such As Water, Electricity And Gas

If your lease contract does not include the costs of water, electricity, gas, etc., you need to contact the relevant service provider by yourself to open an account. Make sure to complete these arrangements before checking in to avoid affecting your daily life.

2. Precautions on The Day of Moving in

a) Inspect The Apartment Facilities

On the day of moving in, carefully check whether all the facilities in the apartment are operating normally, such as door locks, windows, electrical appliances, lighting, heating, air conditioning, etc. If any problem is found, take photos in time and inform the agent or landlord so that it can be repaired as soon as possible.

b) Clean The Living Space

Although the landlord or agent is responsible for cleaning the apartment before you move in, you should still give your living space a thorough cleaning, especially the kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. This not only helps to create a comfortable living environment, but also makes it easier for you to get familiar with the structure of the apartment.

c) Record The Condition of The Apartments

Use a mobile phone or camera to take photos of various parts of the apartment, especially the existing damaged or worn areas. These photos will serve as evidence of the condition of the flat when you move in and help you avoid unnecessary disputes when you move out.

3. Important Matters After Check-In

a) Understand The Responsibilities for Maintenance & Repair

According to the laws of Victoria, landlords or agents are responsible for maintaining the normal operation of the structure and major facilities of the apartment. Tenants need to keep the house clean and in good condition. If any repair is needed, notify the landlord or the agent in a timely manner and keep the relevant communication records.

b) Be Familiar with The Regulations on Rent Payment

Make sure to pay the rent on time and keep the payment vouchers. If you encounter financial difficulties and are unable to pay the rent on time, you should communicate with your landlord or agent as soon as possible to seek a solution.

c) Join The Community & Understand The Surrounding Environment

Actively participate in the activities organized by the student accommodation, make new friends and integrate into the community. At the same time, be familiar with the surrounding supermarkets, medical institutions, public transportation and other facilities to facilitate daily life.

4. Conclusion

By following the above check-in checklist, you will be able to smoothly adapt to student life in Melbourne and enjoy a safe and comfortable living environment. If you have any questions or need help, seeking support from relevant institutions in a timely manner will help you better integrate into your new life.