The practical moving checklist for renters in Texas
Our renter checklist helps you organize your Texas move, from packing and prepping your household to comparing electricity plans before move-in. Simply look up your new address to compare plans, and schedule service before you need it.
The practical moving checklist for renters in Texas
Our renter checklist helps you organize your Texas move, from packing and prepping your household to comparing electricity plans before move-in. Simply look up your new address to compare plans, and schedule service before you need it.
Have kids and pets to consider? Thoughtful planning can help them feel safer, more included and better prepared for the change. Taking the time to talk through their emotions, discuss your new home and community while keeping up with familiar routines can make a big difference.
Look over your renter's lease and key dates for your timeline about 8 weeks before moving day. Taking these steps now can help you avoid last-minute stress, extra moving costs and delays as moving day approaches.
Get started about 6 weeks before moving day to book a moving service and update various records and accounts.
Planning to move during Texas’s peak season from May to September? Choosing a weekday or mid-month move may offer more flexibility and availability.
With just a few weeks left to go, separate the items you'll take with you from the labeled boxes for your moving service. If you're driving, you might want to schedule a tune-up before hitting the road.
The last week before moving day is all about packing up the car with the essentials and using up items in your pantry, refrigerator or freezer to simplify your move.
The day before moving day, do a final check to make sure everything is packed and ready to go.
Following these final steps the day before moving helps prevent last-minute issues, keeping your move on track.
After moving day, focus on a few key tasks to help you get settled and organized.
Make your move a little more eco-friendly with these tips.
Yes. Once you have your new address and planned move-in date, you can schedule electricity to start in advance so power is ready when you arrive. Planning early can help make move-in day feel more seamless, even if you don’t have access to your new home or apartment later in the day.
Move-in dates can change, especially with apartments. If plans shift, you can easily update your electricity start date. Making adjustments early can help keep your energy setup aligned with your new timeline.
Deposit requirements can vary by plan and individual circumstances. During sign-up, you’ll see any applicable requirements before service begins, which can help you plan ahead as part of your overall move.
Yes. Each account has one primary account holder, and roommates can still share responsibility. Multiple people can make payments using Quick Pay, and shared access through the Reliant app can help everyone stay informed.
During your move-in walk-through, note any existing issues such as wall marks, flooring wear or appliance concerns. Taking photos and saving them with your lease documents can help support clear communication later. Our renter moving resources include reminders to help keep this step on track.
Texas landlords generally return security deposits within a defined time frame after move-out, given that lease terms are met. Reviewing your lease details and keeping walk-through documentation can help set expectations and support a smooth close-out.
In addition to rent and a security deposit, renters may see application fees, administrative fees or pet-related deposits. Including these in your early moving budget can help keep planning straightforward.
Weekend moves are common. Apartments may require reserved elevator times or specific loading windows, so it’s a good idea to confirm the building's rules about moving early. Scheduling your electricity service ahead of time through the Moving Hub can help keep the power on throughout your move.
Scheduling internet and home security services about 4 to 6 weeks before moving day can help improve availability, especially during busy moving seasons.
If access is delayed, contact the property manager right away to confirm your next steps. Schedule your electricity start date to align with move-in day so power is available when you arrive.
Apartment moves often involve shared spaces, parking guidelines and set move-in windows. Planning ahead for access details and electricity setup can help reduce last-minute changes and keep moving day on schedule.
Most movers do not transport hazardous materials, certain chemicals or perishable food. Asking your moving company for a full list ahead of time can help you pack those items separately and avoid delays.
Yes. Eligible plans may include options like Make It Solar, which supports solar-sourced energy without rooftop panels. This can be a flexible choice for apartments and rental homes.
Small adjustments, such as using smart power strips or running certain appliances during off-peak windows, can help support efficient energy use in rental spaces. Reliant shares additional guidance in its energy tips and resources.
The Reliant customer care team is available 24/7 in English and Spanish to help with plans, billing or service questions. You can call 1-866-RELIANT or connect through online chat.
1 Same-day service is offered Monday through Saturday (except on holidays), where an existing standard "smart" meter is in place. For move-ins (including transfer of service), Requests processed after 6 PM Central Time will be connected the next business day. For switches, requests processed after 5 PM Central Time will be connected the next business day. Permit and enrollment requirements must be met before a request can be processed (examples can be found here). Additional charges may apply based upon your TDSP.
2 Your participation in the Make It Solar program will end at the same time as your participation in the qualifying electricity plan through which you were enrolled in the Make It Solar program ends or until your retail electric service with Reliant is discontinued. Enrollment in the Make It Solar program will continue if you move from one qualifying plan to another without a discontinuation of electric service by Reliant. You may cancel your participation in the Make It Solar program at any time by calling 1-866-222-7100. Cancellation will be processed by the next business day and will be effective at the end of your then-current program month. Changes will be reflected on your Reliant bill in up to two billing cycles.
