Move-out Guide For USC Students: What to Do Before You Hand Back the Keys

Moving out at the end of a lease near USC comes with its own checklist, and skipping a step can cost students their security deposit just as easily as a messy move-in inspection would in Los Angeles.

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University Park and Nearby Neighborhoods

University Park turns over a large share of its leases every summer as USC students graduate, transfer housing, or head home, which means landlords in the area have seen just about every move-out shortcut and know exactly what to look for during a final walkthrough.

Move-out Guide For USC Students: What to Do Before You Hand Back the Keys

A solid move-out guide for usc students starts weeks before the actual move date, not the night before. Read through move-out guide for usc students material from your specific landlord if they provide one, since deposit deduction rules vary by property, and take dated photos of every room, appliance, and wall before you remove a single box. Most disputes over a security deposit come down to a disagreement about the unit's condition at move-in versus move-out, and photo evidence settles that argument fast.

Tips for a Smooth Move-out Guide For USC Students

• Take dated, well-lit photos of every room and appliance right before you hand back the keys.

• Schedule the final walkthrough with the landlord or property manager rather than just dropping off keys and leaving.

• Submit a forwarding address in writing so the security deposit isn't delayed or lost in the mail.

• Review the original move-in inspection report so you know exactly what condition you're expected to return the unit to.

For a complete overview of off-campus living near campus, check out our Off-Campus Housing Guide: University of Southern California.

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This article is provided by an independent housing resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by University of Southern California.