Moving out is a big transition, and we want to make the process as clear and stress-free as possible. This guide walks you through each step, from submitting your notice to receiving your security deposit, so you always know what to expect and how to prepare.
Step 1: Submit Your Notice to Vacate
To officially begin your move-out process, please submit a written notice by email to support@myaltaliving.com.
Most leases require at least a 30-day notice, though your specific lease agreement will confirm the timeline that applies to you. Once we receive your notice, our team will respond with next steps and a full outline of what to expect leading up to your lease end date.
Submitting your notice on time helps avoid any delays or additional charges, so we recommend planning ahead as early as you’re able.
Step 2: Schedule a Pre-Move-Out Inspection
After your notice is received, our team will reach out to ask whether you’d like to schedule a pre-move-out inspection. This optional walkthrough typically takes place about two weeks before your move-out date and is one of the most helpful things you can do to prepare.
During the walkthrough, a member of our team will walk through the apartment with you, point out any areas that may benefit from additional cleaning, identify minor items that can be addressed before move-out, and help clarify general expectations for returning the apartment.
This gives you a real opportunity to make adjustments ahead of time and can help reduce the likelihood of avoidable charges. While it’s entirely optional, we genuinely recommend taking advantage of it for a smoother experience overall.
Step 3: Prepare Your Apartment
As your move-out date approaches, we recommend returning the apartment in clean condition consistent with lease requirements, normal wear and tear excepted, and removing all personal belongings and trash. Our team will assess the apartment after move-out to determine whether any conditions fall outside of normal wear and tear, in accordance with your lease agreement and applicable laws.
Examples that may result in charges can include excessive damage, missing items, unauthorized alterations, or conditions requiring remediation beyond standard turnover preparation.
Step 4: Schedule Your Move-Out Inspection and Key Return
On or before your lease end date, please coordinate with our team to schedule your move-out inspection and key return. This typically takes place once you’ve fully moved out, the apartment is empty, and you’re ready to return all keys, fobs, and access devices.
If you plan to vacate earlier than your lease end date, please let us know. In many cases, we can begin the move-out process sooner, which may also allow us to start your security deposit processing earlier.
Step 5: Final Inspection and Condition Review
During your move-out inspection, our team will review the apartment’s overall condition after all personal belongings have been removed. Our review may include:
- General cleanliness throughout the apartment
- The condition of appliances, fixtures, and surfaces
- Any damage or conditions beyond normal wear and tear
- Confirmation that all Alta-issued items have been returned
Please note that some level of wear is expected from everyday living, and any potential charges will be evaluated in accordance with your lease agreement and applicable California laws.
It’s also important to know that the move-out walkthrough is not a final accounting of charges. Final determinations are completed after the inspection as part of our full move-out review process, and you’ll receive an itemized statement if any deductions apply. Returning the apartment in clean condition and removing all personal belongings helps support a smoother move-out and deposit reconciliation process.
Step 6: Return All Keys and Access Items
Please make sure to return everything that was issued to you at move-in, including:
- Unit keys
- Mailbox keys
- Garage remotes or parking passes
- Building fobs or access devices
Missing items may result in replacement charges, so it’s worth taking a moment to confirm everything is accounted for before your inspection appointment.
Step 7: Provide a Forwarding Address
To make sure your security deposit is processed without any hiccups, please submit a forwarding address on your provided Notice to Vacate form where your refund or any correspondence can be sent. Sharing this information with team early helps avoid delays on our end.
Step 8: Security Deposit Return
Security deposit returns, where applicable, are processed within the timeframe required by applicable California law. If any deductions apply, you’ll receive an itemized statement outlining the details clearly.
Completing all move-out steps promptly and submitting your notice on time are the best ways to keep this process moving smoothly.
A Few Final Thoughts
The move-out process really does go most smoothly for residents who plan ahead. Submitting your notice on time, scheduling a pre-move-out inspection, and preparing your apartment carefully in advance are the three things that make the biggest difference.
We’re here to support you every step of the way, so please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions at any point during the process. We want your move-out experience to feel just as positive as your move-in did.
