Since shifting to a new Paying Guest (PG) accommodation involves a lot of moving parts, it is helpful to break the process down into phases. Here is a deeper, more detailed look at the steps you should take before, during, and after your shift.
Phase 1: The Pre-Shift Planning
Before you pack a single bag, you need to have a solid plan in place.
- Finalize Your Notice Period: Check your current PG agreement. If the notice period is 30 days, inform your current landlord exactly 30 days before you plan to leave. Ask for an acknowledgment in writing (or via WhatsApp) so there is no confusion later.
- Calculate Your Moving Budget: Shifting is not just about paying the new rent. You need to budget for:
- The new security deposit.
- Packers and movers, or an auto-rickshaw/cab fare.
- Cleaning supplies or basic room essentials for the new place (like a new bedsheet, bucket, or dustbin).
Phase 2: The Physical Inspection (Things People Forget)
When you visit a potential new PG, you need to look beyond the fresh paint and nice furniture. Keep an eye out for these hidden details:
- Mobile Network Reception: Check your phone's signal inside the specific room you are getting. Sometimes, rooms on the ground floor or in the basement have no network.
- Ventilation and Sunlight: Does the room have a window? A room without cross-ventilation can feel suffocating and smell damp, especially during the rainy season.
- Mattress and Bed Quality: Press the mattress to see if it is comfortable. Check the wooden bed for any signs of bedbugs or termites.
- Water Pressure: Go to the bathroom and turn on the taps and the shower. Make sure the water pressure is good and the drains are not blocked.
Phase 3: Legal and Paperwork Checklist
Never pay a large amount of money without getting things in writing.
- The PG Agreement: Ensure you sign a formal rent agreement. It should clearly state the monthly rent, the exact deposit amount, the notice period, and the lock-in period (the minimum number of months you must stay).
- Payment Receipts: Always ask for a receipt when you pay your deposit or monthly rent. If you are paying online via UPI or bank transfer, write a clear note in the payment description (e.g., "Security Deposit for Room 201").
- Police Verification: Many cities require tenant police verification. Ask the PG owner if they handle this process or if you need to submit the forms yourself.
Phase 4: Moving Day Step-by-Step
To make the actual moving day smooth, follow this sequence:
- Pack Smart: Pack your daily essentials (toothbrush, charger, one pair of clothes, important documents) in a separate backpack so you don't have to open all your big bags on the first night.
- Take Pictures of the Old Room: Before handing over the keys to your old PG, take photos of the empty room to prove you left it in good condition.
- Take Pictures of the New Room: When you enter the new PG, immediately take pictures of any existing damage (like a broken switch or a stain on the wall) and send them to the owner. This ensures they don't blame you for it later.
Settle In: Unpack your things, set up your bed, and introduce yourself to your new roommates
