A signed lease is only one part of a smooth move. Tenants also need working utilities, building access and a clear record of the home's condition before furniture arrives.
This checklist covers practical preparation. Your contract, building and utility provider determine the actual requirements for your address.
Confirm the tenancy and account path
Ask the landlord or agent for the final signed agreement, the registration status, the exact unit number and the contact who handles building access. The Abu Dhabi Residents Office explains Tawtheeq and utility access. Do not assume that signing an agreement alone has completed registration.
Abu Dhabi city electricity and water are served under the TAQA Distribution brand, formerly ADDC. Check TAQA Distribution's move in support for the current path for your address. Ask the provider which documents and account steps apply before promising a connection date.
Ask what is separate from electricity and water
Before move day, confirm whether cooling is part of the building service, separately metered or handled by another provider. Ask who opens that account, which documents are needed and when service begins. Arrange home internet with the chosen provider and confirm installation access with the building.
Do not use a generic deposit or activation fee from another property as a quote for yours. Obtain written amounts and billing rules from the actual providers.
Book the building handover
Ask management whether a move in slot, loading area, lift booking or access card is required. Confirm the number of keys and parking remotes before arranging a mover.
| Before furniture arrives | Record |
|---|---|
| Utilities | Account or application reference and connection status |
| Access | Keys, cards, parking remote and booked lift |
| Condition | Dated photos of every room and visible defect |
| Meters | Readings where accessible and applicable |
| Documents | Lease, registration, receipts and manager contacts |
Create a shared condition record
Walk the home with the landlord or manager where possible. Test taps, drains, cooling, doors, windows and supplied appliances. Photograph existing damage with enough context to identify the room. Send the list in writing promptly and ask the recipient to acknowledge it. Keep a copy of both the message and the original images.
This record helps both sides discuss later repairs and handback. It does not decide who is responsible for any defect.
Close the first week
Check that bills and accounts show the correct property and name. Keep receipts for access cards, cooling and any service setup. If something is wrong, contact the provider or manager through an official support channel and record the case number.
For location context before a move, browse Knownable's area guides.