Although there are no formal rules when changing address, the code of ethics of the good mover can be summed up in one word: cleaning. But still ? Moving and organization experts have other benevolent ideas to pass on for the 1er July.
The Quebec platform MovingWaldo is a technology company specializing in moving planning. The site also publishes lists of tasks to be carried out before departure. Among them, it is recommended to clean your accommodation before leaving it. This rule also applies to the exterior of the property.
PHOTO CHARLES WILLIAM PELLETIER, THE PRESS
Philippe Tardif-Michaud, co-founder of MovingWaldo
“Mow the lawn before you go or make sure the pool isn’t green. When you have maintained your pool for 20 years, you are able to add a final dose of chlorine,” says Philippe Tardif-Michaud, co-founder of MovingWaldo.
In addition to a good cleaning, the moving pro Pierre-Olivier Cyr, of the Clan Panneton, reminds us that everything must be emptied. “Instead of throwing things away, people leave things on the spot,” he observes. They leave large pieces of furniture and even appliances. It can cost new owners thousands of dollars to get rid of. »
“You have to pick up your garbage, empty the garbage cans and, if necessary, go to the ecocentre,” adds professional organizer Sarah Barrette.
To avoid frustration, Pierre-Olivier Cyr suggests making a list of items you no longer want, then contacting future occupants before D-Day to offer them.
Pay it forward
If the unwritten rule is that you leave nothing behind, all the experts interviewed encourage the former occupants to offer some basic elements. A box of tissues, a roll of toilet paper, paper towels, a garbage bag or even a bag of ice cubes in the freezer could help both movers and those who are moving in.
PHOTO DAVID BOILY, LA PRESSE ARCHIVES
Pierre-Olivier Cyr, of the Clan Panneton
I even saw a customer who had left a gift basket with coffee and toothbrushes. It’s nice and always appreciated.
Pierre-Olivier Cyr, of the Clan Panneton
Another element to leave on site: paint cans. They will allow new occupants to make touch-ups without having to repaint everything. Daniella Condello of Bienrangé recommends clearly labeling each jar and, again, throwing out the faded ones.
Should we use the paint one last time to repair the walls before leaving? Not necessarily according to Pierre-Olivier Cyr, who especially recommends sealing large holes. “You see so many disappointed new owners when they move in and see the house empty for the first time,” he observes. They are doing all the work for the next few months to make the place to their liking. Plugging a few holes before leaving can reduce disappointments and keep the house clean. »
Among other benevolent gestures, organizer Daniella Condello recommends leaving user guides for all devices in the house in plain view and checking the batteries of smoke detectors before leaving. “New owners may not know how the oven works,” she says. It’s a simple gesture that can save your life. »
Pierre-Olivier Cyr goes even further. He suggests making sure all appliances are working and even having them professionally inspected before moving. “It will cost you money, but it saves you trouble,” he adds.
PHOTO ANNE GAUTHIER, LA PRESSE ARCHIVES
During a move, it is suggested to leave the advertising leaflets of the surrounding restaurants in full view. The pizza will be welcome by undoing the boxes.
Other kind gestures
Another benevolent gesture: provide your list of neighborhood contacts. “Mention that there is a handyman nearby who can help or a trusted babysitter for the children. There’s really no other way to find out than to do trial and error. We can leave a short list,” advises Philippe Tardif-Michaud.
Why not indicate on this list the day of the waste and recycling collection, the name of the telecommunications providers in the district or even its new address? If ever the change was not done correctly, everyone will be grateful.
During her last move, Daniella Condello also left the advertising leaflets of the surrounding restaurants in full view. “When you’re in clubs and you don’t know the area, it saves time,” she says.
And why not book a parking spot? This detail is essential for the occupants of a condo and sometimes unavoidable in certain streets. If it is necessary to reserve the building’s elevator for the move, the future owner will no doubt be grateful to you for informing him of this and helping him to reserve his time slot. “It has happened to me that movers have to wait eight hours in the truck to be able to use the elevator, says Pierre-Olivier Cyr. It’s expensive! »