Move-In Checklist for a New Apartment in Kuwait
Moving into a new apartment is exciting but requires careful organization. This checklist ensures you won't miss anything important.
Before Moving (1-2 Weeks Prior)
Paperwork and Official Procedures
- ✅ Signed lease copy registered with the Municipality
- ✅ Update Civil ID address at the Public Authority for Civil Information
- ✅ Register electricity meter in your name at Ministry of Electricity & Water
- ✅ Open electricity account: Deposit 50-100 KD as guarantee
Booking Moving Services
- ✅ Book a moving company at least one week ahead
- ✅ Compare prices: 50-80 KD (small apartment) to 100-150 KD (large apartment)
- ✅ Ensure content insurance (some companies offer this)
- ✅ Pack items in numbered boxes with content labels
Final Inspection Day (Before Key Handover)
Comprehensive Apartment Check
- ✅ Photograph every room (walls, floors, ceiling) with clear date
- ✅ Test every faucet for water pressure and leaks
- ✅ Run the AC in each room for 15 minutes
- ✅ Open and close every door and window — check for smooth operation
- ✅ Test electrical outlets — use a phone charger
- ✅ Verify water heater works (hot water takes ~2 minutes)
- ✅ Check oven and stove (if furnished)
- ✅ Record electricity and water meter readings with photos
Structure and Cleanliness Check
- ✅ Look for moisture — brown spots on ceiling or corners
- ✅ Inspect flooring — cracked tiles or visible scratches
- ✅ Ensure kitchen and bathroom are clean — drains work smoothly
- ✅ Check locks — main apartment door and room doors
Moving Day
Services and Connections
- ✅ Internet installation: STC, Ooredoo, or Zain — book one week ahead
- ✅ Satellite/IPTV setup if needed
- ✅ Register delivery address on food and shopping apps
Safety and Security
- ✅ Change main door lock or confirm landlord changed it
- ✅ Locate fire exit and fire extinguisher
- ✅ Save building guard's number and emergency contacts
First Settlement
- ✅ Meet your neighbors — good relationships make life easier
- ✅ Locate nearest co-op, pharmacy, and hospital
- ✅ Inform your employer of the new address
- ✅ Create a digital file with: lease, apartment photos, payment receipts
Expected Moving Costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Furniture moving | 50-150 KD |
| Electricity deposit | 50-100 KD |
| Internet installation | 20-30 KD |
| Cleaning supplies | 15-25 KD |
| Lock change | 15-30 KD |
| Total | 150-335 KD |
Golden Tip
Send all apartment condition photos to your landlord via email or WhatsApp immediately upon receiving the keys. This protects you when moving out and ensures full recovery of your security deposit.
