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Planning Your Move

A guide for those moving to the Greater Boston area. 

Signing a Lease

What to know

A lease is a binding legal contract between you and the property owner or landlord. The lease protects both the landlord and the tenant by stating the terms of the agreement, which include the rental price, the number of tenants and the time period that you will reside in the apartment. When you sign a lease, you are obligated to pay the landlord monthly for the duration of the lease. Most leases are for 12 months and are difficult to break, so make certain it is the apartment you want. It is strongly suggested that you read and understand everything in the contract before you sign.

  • Know your rights as a tenant and know your landlord’s responsibilities.

  • Know what utilities are included in the rent (heat, gas, electricity).

  • Discuss and negotiate any problem areas in the lease before you sign.

  • Initial any changes you and the landlord make.

  • Do not sign the lease if there are blank spaces.

  • Do not feel pressured to sign. Take your time read it carefully.

  • Know that if you sign you are responsible for all costs and damages.

  • List all existing damages to the apartment.

  • Get a signed copy of the lease with your signature and the landlord’s signature.

Note: Within 10 days after your lease begins, your landlord must send you a signed copy statement describing the condition of the apartment. It must include a comprehensive list of existing damage to your apartment, including sanitary and building codes violations ascertained by the state or local government. You may also want to know if there are any rules or concerns about the apartment. Below are examples of questions to ask:

  • Are there rules regarding tack and nail holes?

  • Who has the right to conduct inspections and how often?

  • Will the landlord provide paint?

  • What are the rules concerning noise and conduct?

  • Will the landlord reduce rent for maintenance done by tenants?

  • Can the rent increase if the numbers of tenants increase?

  • Do roommates have to be approved by the landlord?

Tenancy-At-Will

Apartments without leases or 30 day move out clauses are called tenancy-at-will. This agreement allows a tenant to rent the premises for an unspecified amount of time. It is strongly recommended that you get the agreement in writing noting your monthly rental payment and any other information. To terminate a tenancy-at-will, the landlord or tenant must give at least 30 days advance 

Moving In/Out

You always want to plan ahead for your moving. Listed below are a few things to think about before moving in and moving out.

Before moving in:

  • Do not move into an apartment if the condition is unacceptable

  • Arrange utilities before you move in

  • Try to set up phone lines and/or cable in advance

  • Set up parking for your moving truck (in Boston)

  • Ask your landlord about trash and recycling pick-up

  • You need to display your name on the mailbox to receive your mail

  • Change your address with school and local post office. You can update your local address with the IHP via IOnline

Before moving out:

  • You must give a 30-day notice to your landlord if you are planning to move out, even if your lease expires

  • Before you move out, be sure to clean your apartment thoroughly. You can be charged for additional cleaning if the condition of the apartment does not meet requirements

  • Make an appointment with your landlord and jointly inspect the apartment. The security deposit may not be refunded in full if there is any damage in the apartment. Be sure to return the keys to the landlord

  • Change your address with school and local post office. You can update your local address with the IHP via IOnline. Complete the USPS official change of address form to forward your mail appropriately

  • If necessary, make arrangements to store furniture or personal belongings

File a Change of Address with the Post Office

Easily change your mailing address through the United States Post Office.

Apply for a Boston Residential Parking Permit

Many sections of on-street parking in Boston are for residents only. Easily apply for a permit through Boston.gov.

Registry of Motor Vehicles

You can apply for a MA driver's license, register a out-of-state vehicle, and more at the Registry of Motor Vehicles.  See what's needed on their website.

Zipcar

Zipcar is a by-the-hour car rental option available in the Greater Boston area.  Current students are eligible for discounts. 

Register to Vote

Review how to register to vote as a Boston resident.  Learn how to register to vote for residents of any town in Massachusetts