Apartment vs. House Move in Metro Vancouver: Key Differences
Moving from an apartment to a house, or from a house to an apartment, involves different logistics, planning requirements, and challenges. Here is what to expect for each transition.
Moving Out of an Apartment
Elevator booking. If you are in a condo or apartment building, book the freight elevator at least 1–2 weeks before your move date. This is the most time-sensitive task for an apartment move-out.
Strata rules. Review your building's move-out rules: permitted hours, damage deposit requirements, floor protection, and designated entry/exit routes.
Cleaning. You are required to return the unit in the same condition as when you moved in (allowing for normal wear and tear). A thorough cleaning is essential for getting your damage deposit back.
Documentation. Take photos and video of every room before you leave. This protects you if there is a dispute about damage.
Moving Into a House
Direct access. Houses typically have more direct access than apartments — the truck can often park in the driveway or directly in front of the door. This speeds up loading and unloading compared to an apartment with a long carry from the elevator.
Stairs. Many houses have stairs, which adds time compared to a single-level apartment. A two-storey house with a basement can have three levels to move between.
Parking. Confirm where the truck will park. A driveway is ideal. Street parking may require a temporary no-parking permit in some Metro Vancouver municipalities.
Measuring doorways. Houses often have narrower doorways than newer apartment buildings. Measure your largest furniture pieces against the doorways at the new house before moving day.
Moving Out of a House
More volume. Houses typically have more furniture and belongings than apartments. A 3-bedroom house move takes significantly longer than a 3-bedroom apartment move.
Garage and storage. Houses often have garages, basements, and storage areas that add significant volume. Start packing these areas early — they take longer than expected.
Yard items. Outdoor furniture, garden equipment, and yard items need to be packed or prepared for the move. Drain fuel from gas-powered equipment.
Moving Into an Apartment
Measure everything. This is the most important step when moving from a house to an apartment. Measure every piece of furniture and compare it to the doorways, hallways, and elevator dimensions at the new apartment.
What will not fit? Identify furniture that will not fit in the new apartment before moving day. Sell or donate these pieces rather than discovering the problem on moving day.
Storage. Apartments have less storage than houses. Plan your storage strategy before the move — what goes in the closets, what goes under the bed, what gets donated.
Ready to Move?
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