Which of the following expenses is necessary upon moving into a rental apartment?

When moving into a rental apartment, utility deposits are a necessary expense because they are typically required by utility companies to establish service in your name. These deposits serve as a security measure for the utility providers, ensuring they are covered for any unpaid bills. Most landlords expect tenants to set up utilities—like water, electricity, and gas—and these companies often require a deposit before initiating services.

While furniture assembly fees, cleaning expenses, and application fees may be relevant to some tenants, they are not universally required for all rental situations. Furniture assembly fees depend on whether tenants have purchased furniture that needs assembly. Cleaning expenses can vary based on the condition of the apartment upon move-in and the tenant's preference for cleanliness. Application fees are typically paid prior to securing a rental and may not be a consideration after moving in, making utility deposits the most essential expense related to actually residing in the apartment.