Moving into a PG or rented room: the day-one checklist

Your deposit refund is decided on the day you move in, not the day you leave. Ten minutes with your phone camera now can save you thousands later.

Before you unpack

• Photograph everything as you found it: walls, floor, bathroom, furniture, appliances. Take a short video walking through the room.
• Note existing damage (stains, cracks, broken handles) and send it to the owner on WhatsApp the same day. The message has a date on it.
• Check the meter reading for electricity and send a photo too.

Test what you'll use every day

• Taps, flush and hot water
• Every light, fan and plug point
• Door and window locks, and whether you get your own key
• Wi-Fi speed in your actual room
• Power backup: which points work when the power goes out

Get the paperwork sorted

• A copy of your rent agreement, signed by both of you
• A receipt for the deposit and the first month's rent
• The owner's or manager's number for emergencies
• Tenant verification done if your city requires it

Settle in

• Save the numbers for the local grocery, water can supplier and laundry.
• Ask how garbage collection works, and what time the gate closes.
• Introduce yourself to your neighbours or roommates. Future you will thank you.

On RentoRooms?

Scan the QR tag on your door on move-in day. It checks you in, and on your first booking you get 30% of a month's rent back as cashback. When you move out, scan the same tag so the room is ready for the next tenant.

Need help shifting? Book packers & movers.