Approximately 50% of Orlando metro residents rent rather than own, and renters move far more frequently – every 2-3 years on average compared to 7-10 years for homeowners.
Renting comes with unique moving challenges: landlords, security deposits, lease terms, and apartment rules. One mistake can cost you hundreds in lost deposits or lease-breaking fees.
Understanding Your Lease Terms
Notice Requirements
Most Orlando leases require 30-60 days written notice before moving out.
Common Notice Periods:
- Month-to-month lease: 30 days
- Annual lease ending: 60 days
- Breaking lease early: Varies (often 2-3 months rent penalty)
Important: Notice must be in writing. Verbal notice doesn’t count.
Consequences of Insufficient Notice:
- Charged rent through full notice period
- Loss of security deposit
- Negative rental history
Getting Your Security Deposit Back
Statistics: Only 65% of renters receive their full security deposit back.
Document Everything at Move-In
Take Comprehensive Photos/Video:
- Every wall, floor, and ceiling
- All appliances and fixtures
- Carpet condition
- Any existing damage
Complete Move-In Inspection Form thoroughly. Keep a copy and have landlord sign.
Understanding Normal Wear and Tear
Normal Wear and Tear (Cannot Charge You):
- Small nail holes from pictures
- Faded paint from sun
- Worn carpet in traffic patterns
- Minor scuff marks
- Dirty grout from normal use
Damage (Can Charge You):
- Large holes in walls
- Pet damage (scratches, stains, odors)
- Broken appliances or fixtures
- Carpet stains or burns
- Excessive dirt
Move-Out Cleaning Requirements
Cleaning Checklist:
Kitchen:
- Clean inside/outside all appliances
- Wipe cabinets
- Clean countertops, sink, and floors
Bathrooms:
- Scrub tub, shower, toilet, sink
- Clean mirrors and cabinets
- Clean floors
Living Areas:
- Vacuum all carpets
- Sweep/mop floors
- Remove all personal items
Professional Cleaning: Cost: $150-$300 for 1-2 bedroom apartment
Worth it? If your deposit is $1,000+, professional cleaning can ensure you get it back.
Move-Out Inspection
Schedule a walk-through with your landlord to address concerns immediately.
Take final photos after cleaning, before leaving keys.
Florida Deposit Law:
- Landlord must return deposit within 15 days if no deductions
- Must send written notice within 30 days if making deductions
Finding Your Next Rental
Application Requirements
What You’ll Need:
- Photo ID
- Proof of income (pay stubs, offer letter)
- Rental history
- References
- Application fee: $50-$100 (non-refundable)
Income Requirements: Monthly gross income must be 2.5-3x monthly rent.
Examples:
- $1,200 rent requires $3,000-$3,600 income
- $1,500 rent requires $3,750-$4,500 income
Credit Requirements: Most Orlando landlords want credit score of 600+.
Final Walk-Through
Request in writing 1-2 weeks before move-out. This allows you to fix issues before final inspection.
Orlando Rental Market
Average Rental Costs (2025)
Studio: $1,100-$1,500/month
1-Bedroom: $1,300-$1,800/month
2-Bedroom: $1,600-$2,300/month
3-Bedroom: $1,900-$2,800/month
Moving Costs for Renters
Average Renter Move (Local Orlando):
Studio/1-Bedroom: Professional movers: $400-$800
2-Bedroom: Professional movers: $600-$1,200
3-Bedroom: Professional movers: $900-$1,600
Total Renter Move Budget (including first month costs):
- Studio: $3,500-$5,000
- 1-Bedroom: $4,000-$6,000
- 2-Bedroom: $5,000-$8,000
Renter Moving Checklist
60 Days Before:
- Give written notice to landlord
- Research and apply to new rentals
30 Days Before:
- Secure new rental
- Book movers
- Begin packing
- Schedule utilities transfer
2 Weeks Before:
- Request move-out inspection
- Continue packing
- Begin cleaning
1 Week Before:
- Deep clean apartment
- Complete packing
- Take move-out photos
Moving Day:
- Final cleaning
- Final walkthrough
- Take final photos
- Return keys as specified
After Move:
- Forward mail
- Update address
- Follow up on deposit return (15-30 days)
Orlando Express Movers for Renters
At Orlando Express Movers, the majority of our moves are for renters. We understand apartment-specific challenges.
Our Renter-Focused Services:
Building Coordination: We handle elevator reservations, insurance certificates, and building requirements.
Deposit Protection: Our careful handling increases chances of full deposit return.
Flexible Scheduling: We work around lease end dates and building restrictions.
Affordable Options: Pricing that works for renter budgets.
Experience: We know Orlando apartment buildings and their rules.
Whether you’re moving from a studio to a house or a house to an apartment, we’ve done thousands of renter moves in Orlando.
You’ve Got This
Renting means moving more frequently, but with the right preparation, each move becomes smoother. Understanding your lease, protecting your deposit, and staying organized makes all the difference.
Contact Orlando Express Movers today for a free quote on your rental move. Let us know you’re a renter, and we’ll address your specific building requirements.
Call us to discuss your apartment move. We’re here to make your rental relocation smooth and affordable!