Apartment Hunting Checklist: Will Your Furniture Fit?

Why Measurements Matter When Apartment Hunting

Finding the perfect apartment involves more than loving the layout and location. Before signing a lease, you need to know your furniture will fit. This checklist covers every measurement you should take during apartment viewings.

Before You Start: Know Your Furniture

Create an inventory of your largest pieces with measurements:

• Bed frame (length, width, headboard height)
• Sofa (length, width, depth, diagonal depth)
• Dining table (length, width, plus chairs pushed out)
• Desk (width, depth)
• Dresser and wardrobes (width, height, depth)
• Refrigerator and other large appliances

Entry Path Measurements

The most important measurements are often overlooked:

Building Entry

• Main entrance door width and height
• Any turns in the lobby or hallways
• Elevator interior dimensions (if applicable)
• Stairwell width and ceiling height

Apartment Entry

• Front door width and height
• Door frame depth
• Entry hallway width
• Any immediate turns after entering

Living Room Checklist

Measure and document:

• Room dimensions (length and width)
• Ceiling height
• Window locations and sizes
• Electrical outlet locations
• TV cable/hookup location
• Any architectural features (columns, alcoves)
• Doorway widths entering the room

Bedroom Checklist

Critical for ensuring your bed fits:

• Room dimensions
• Closet door clearance
• Window placement (will bed block them?)
• Door swing direction and clearance
• Space for nightstands
• Room for dresser or wardrobe

Kitchen Checklist

Appliance placement is crucial:

• Refrigerator space dimensions
• Stove/oven opening
• Counter space (length and depth)
• Cabinet dimensions
• Dishwasher opening (if not included)
• Space for small appliances

Bathroom Checklist

Often the smallest room with the least flexibility:

• Door width and swing direction
• Space for bath mat and toiletries
• Medicine cabinet/storage dimensions
• Shower/tub size for mobility needs

Closet and Storage

Don't overlook storage:

• Closet depth and width
• Hanging rod height
• Shelf spacing
• Any built-in storage dimensions

Using Technology to Help

Make apartment hunting easier:

• Take photos of every room from multiple angles
• Use ItemFits to compare your furniture to the space
• Create a floor plan sketch with measurements
• Video the walk-through for later reference

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious if:

• Landlord won't allow you to measure
• Listing dimensions don't match reality
• Standard furniture clearly won't fit
• Entry paths have tight turns or low ceilings

Conclusion

A thorough measurement session during apartment viewing can save you from costly mistakes. Print this checklist and bring it to every showing. Your future self will thank you.