Apologies if it's come up before (though I promise I did a search!), but I've just moved into a brand new apartment that we've leased and the light fittings are, erm, spartan and that we're expected to fit them as we see fit.

That's fine and I don't have an issue with that, but I am curious to know what happens when we move out? It might be a bit hard for us to take things like shelves and light fittings, so is there some process where we are somehow reimbursed, or is it a case of grin and bear the cost?

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the-empress-exported.blogspot.com

Basically you take it all with you when you move out and cover up all holes, marks etc.

You could make a deal with the person taking over your flat to take on the new fixtures and fittings however when that person moves out they'd be responsible to remove them if required.

I have a question: If you move out during the Winter months and hand over your keys and have the final inspection done in the evening (after you've finished work), how can anybody see anything if you take the light fittings down?

I have exactly this situation coming up!

(I need to move out in the evening..in case anyone states the obvious!)

Usually there is one or two bare bulbs left up just to have basic light, the decoarative fittings having been removed.

I think you will find that very few property managers will do a handover and inspection after 4 pm in the winter months.
If you have no choice and the propery manager owner has agreed, bring some portable lamps and a flashlight.

Why do you care? I would take all light bulbs out. If it's dark they will not see damage, so you have only to benefit.