Moving House Checklist: What to do when you move home (2023)

We’ve created the Moving Home Checklist to help you keep track of all the important steps along the way to moving home.

This list covers all the important tasks you need to complete your move, from hiring a conveyancer all the way up to your house warming party.

You can download a copy of this list, or sign up for our emails to get them in bite-sized chunks as you go through each stage of the process.

Happy moving!

    1. Research your move

    If you’ve found your new home and your offer has been accepted, it’s time to start your moving house checklist! With no complications, a straightforward move can take around 8 weeks to go through. It’s essential to get the legal side in place early on to ensure a smooth transaction of your property sale or purchase.

    • Do some research and get yourself aConveyancing Solicitor- you can read our articles on what a conveyancing solicitor does, how much conveyancing costs and how to choose a great solicitor.
    • Find out what to consider when choosing a mortgage, and then arrange yourmortgage
    • If you're looking to sell your property, compare estate agents at netanagent
    • Research your new area for information about local news and facilities
    • If you have kids, transfer their school records and order new uniforms
    • If you are currently renting, confirm your moving date with your landlordor estate agent
    • Get valuable possessions assessed for insurance and check if your insurance policy will cover your move. If not, your removals company should be able to provide cover – get it early to avoid any complications
    • Purchase a journal or file to keep documents and notes on your move – include to-do lists, important numbers, dates and details of conversations. You could also get a USB on your keyring to ensure you always have the necessary documents with you and back up everything to the cloud.
    • Sign up for checklist email reminders

    (Video) Tips For Moving House Without the Stress | Phil Spencer: Home Hero

    With a little over a month until your moving day, you may want to start clearing out anything you don’t want to be moved to your new home. Having a good clear out will save you money on your removals, and make unpacking easier! You can start planning your move, even if you haven’t got a firm date yet. Have a look at what to consider when choosing a removals firm so you can know what questions to ask.

    • Figure out which survey you need and how to choose a surveyor
    • Compare costs on a RICS surveyor for your home survey
    • Make a full inventory of your possessions
    • Decide what to take to your new home and where you’ll put them – a floor plan of your new home may help; your seller or estate agent should have one
    • Find out the best ways to purge your unwanted possessions. Remember, removal companies quote on volume so the less you have to move, the cheaper your move will be
    • Look at How to choose a removal company and then getremovals quotes
    • Collect packaging materials – your removal company may be able to supply you with them or you could get some through Bar Services
    • If you’re relocating due to a job move, find out what costs your employer will cover
    • Check the parking restrictions for large removals vehicles at your current home and at your new home. Your removals firm may need to apply to the Council for permits

    3. Finalise contracts and pack

    With 1 month left before you move, you will probably have had a Chartered Surveyor inspect your new property and inform you of its structural condition. If there are issues, you may want to renegotiate your offer. You’ll now be able to talk to your solicitor about exchanging contracts and finalising your moving date so you can appoint your selected removal company and organise parking arrangements and permits for the removals vehicles at both addresses. It’s getting close!

    (Video) MOVING HOUSE HACKS! PACKING HACKS & TIPS FOR MOVING | Emily Norris

    • Speak to your solicitor about exchanging contracts and finalise your moving date
    • If you haven't confirmed a date with yourremovals company, check their availability. If you've already got quotes for your move but haven't chosen a company,check theirfeedbackthrough reallymoving.com.
    • As removals companies may charge a premium during busy times like bank holidays, Fridays and in the summer, see if you can be flexible.
    • Work out a route for your moving day - consider the route for the removals truck and if there are any low bridges or weight restricted areas
    • If you need storage facilities your removals company may be able to offer or recommend them. You can have a look at our guide on how to pick the right storage unit.
    • Organise to have your new house cleaned in between the old owners moving out and you moving in
    • You can order furnishings ready for arrival at your new home and book carpet fitters if any carpets need replacing. If you are having blinds or anything else fitted, and aren’t moving far, visit the property to check measurements in person. Otherwise use plans.
    • Start packing non-essential items and least used rooms – for information on when to pack which items check out ourmoving home guide
    • Clear out the loft, shed, and other storage and outside spaces - clean any gardening equipment you want the removals company to transport.
    • Notify relevant utilities companies and switch home insurance to your new home
    • Check that everything you are taking with you in the car fits
    • Book overnight hotel accommodation if the journey is a long one - many hotel chains offer regular promotions where rooms in less popular locations can be booked relatively cheaply

    At this stage in your move it’s all about confirming important details in preparation for your move. If your removal company cannot provide additional services such as un-plumbing washing machines, disassembling/reassembling furniture and packing, it would be a good time to organise these too. On your moving day, you may want children or pets to stay with family members, meaning you can focus on getting everything moved efficiently.

    • Finalise details with the removals company – confirm times, emergency numbers, parking and directions
    • If relevant, check you have enough medication for the moving period
    • Arrange child and pet care for your moving day – give friends and family enough notice if you need help
    • Book people to carry out services if your removal company is not providing them e.g. house cleaning, dismantling of flat pack furniture, plumber for the dishwasher and washing machines
    • Safely dispose of all flammable materials and liquids that require specialist treatment – your removal company cannot move dangerous liquids
    • Cancel local services you receive and settle outstanding bills. Remember to consider any subscription boxes or magazines, along with newspapers, gardeners, cleaners, window cleaners or oil deliveries
    • Run down freezer foods and other perishables that won’t transport well

    5. Update your address and get organised

    It’s your final week at your old address before moving into your new home, and during this week the priority is organising, finishing packing and getting ready to go!

    • Keep all important documents together in a safe, but accessible, place.
    • Prepare aMoving Day Survival Kitcontaining everything you need to get you through the dayfeeling relaxed, calm and in control
    • Finish as much of your packing as possible so you have everything ready to go – make sure you do this systematically and don’t forget about outdoor toys and equipment
    • Cross-reference boxes to rooms – check out our advice on colour labelling boxesto make organisation easier on the day
    • Gather together keys for your current property and don't forget spares given to neighbours or friends
    • Give the post office your new address and arrange a mail redirection service
    • Defrost the fridge and freezer – ensure they are completely dry before moving
    • Return any borrowed items you might have forgotten about, like tools or books
    • Give away plants and flowers you won’t be taking with you – it is not easy for removal companies to move potted plants. If you are eager to take your plants have a look at our guide on transporting plants.
    • Wash and dry all linen and clothing – box up and label so it’s ready to be unpacked at your new house
    • Make arrangements to pay for your move and ensure you have sufficient cash assets in the bank for emergencies
    • Send out change of address cards to friends and relatives - for a full list of who to notify when moving house take a look at ourChange of Address Checklist
    • Book a time to collect keys to your new home from the Estate Agent
    • Sign up for checklist email reminders

      (Video) THINGS YOU NEED TO DO BEFORE MOVING HOUSE | Home moving tips | 2021

    It’s your last 24 hours at your old address - it’s time for a final check and walk round the property to ensure nothing is forgotten. An overnight bag will help you settle into your new home and have a good night’s sleep. Make sure that this is separate from the items going with the removal lorry.

    • Walk around your house for a final, thorough check – take your time doing this to ensure you leave nothing behind
    • Pack a night bag for the family so you have your toothbrush, pyjamas, washbag and towels handy
    • Put together a mini-toolkit including a sharp knife for opening boxes on arrival
    • Ensure you have the keys to your new house, or have arranged to collect them in advance and gather together keys for all locks from your old home
    • Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged(and you’ve got your charger handy on the day)
    • If you are arranging help from family and friends on moving day, confirm the details with them and that they have your new address if they need it

    7. Lock up and move out

    On a day where emotions can run high, you can feel calm and in control with a plan, meaning you’ll know what you need to do in your final morning at the property. Be ready for when your removal company arrives so they can begin promptly. Identify whether any boxes need special care or are not to be taken by them. Make sure you take the meter readings for you to give to your providers and leave the keys for the new owner. It’s now time to move to your new home!

    • Record all utility meter readings for water, electricity and gas. We recommend taking a photo of the meters with your mobile phone. It mayalso be worth comparing providers to get a better deal.
    • Strip the beds and pack your bedding and curtains
    • Identify fragile boxes and items going with you in the car, so your removals team doesn't pack them
    • Ensure one person stays until your movers have finished packing to check the packing inventory – make sure you are happy everything is accounted for as you will have to sign as confirmation
    • Leave all the sets of keys as arranged for the new owners
    • Check all windows are secure and utilities are switched off
    • Make sure your movers have contact details for you, and confirm the address of the new property
    • Keep copies of contact details for your conveyancer, estate agent and removal company

    When you arrive at your new home it’s important to make your removal company aware of any special instructions and that they know which room the boxes are headed to. Make sure you are happy that everything on your inventory is accounted for before your moving company leaves. But first things first – find your kettle!

    (Video) New Home Move-in CHECKLIST. What to do AFTER Moving into Your House. The ULTIMATE Move-in Checklist.

    • Get the kettle, cups and supplies from your Moving Day Survival Kit. You can set up a coffee and tea station with water and snacks for when you need a break.
    • Confirm what is going where and any special instructions to your removal company. Make sure you have one person ready and available at the new property to guide them around the house. If you colour code the rooms on the floor plan to correspond with boxes this will make it easier for them. You could also stick a coloured piece of paper on each door to make it easier.
    • Account for each item on your inventory and check for any damaged or missing items. Only sign it when you’re happy
    • Unpack your Moving Day Survival Kit to ensure you’ve got everything you need to feel comfortable.
    • Place moving and other important documents in a safe place where you can easily find them in a sea of boxes – it sounds strange, but in the bath is a good option!
    • Read utility meters in your new home – take photos on your phone to keep them safe
    • Check that all the keys for the property work. If you’ve hired a locksmith to put new locks in, keep new keys separate from old ones.
    • Inspect the garden – make sure it is child/pet-proof if applicable (check for hidden ponds, broken fencing or access points that need securing)
    • Sweep for items – if the previous owners have left anything put it in a box and arrange for them to collect it later
    • Sign up for checklist email reminders

    9. Relax in your new home

    After months of preparation and planning, you and your family are in your new home! After a busy moving day, don’t try to unpack everything at once. Make up the beds and then spend the evening relaxing with loved ones and a celebratory takeaway, and congratulate yourself on making it through the day.

    • Do a quick clean and tidy, then make the beds so you can fall straight into them after a busy day. We’re sure you’ll be eager for sleep.
    • Plug in your telephones, mobile phones and larger appliances such as fridges and freezers
    • Use the boiler and heating – ensure you know how to use it so you can have a hot shower and a warm house
    • Settle younger children in a room with some toys and treats
    • If possible, keep pets away until you’re settled in
    • Make a note of emergency contact numbers e.g. out of hours doctors, taxi numbers, vets, local hospitals etc
    • Don’t expect everything to be done immediately – order dinner and leave the unpacking for tomorrow. If you’re ordering a takeaway through an app or online be sure to update your delivery address!
    • Let older children organise their own rooms – you may want to rearrange things in the future but it will help them feel at home
    • Rearrange deliveries - if you had milk, newspapers or subscriptions set up to your old address, you may want to start them again at your new property.
    • Compare energy prices to find a good deal on utilities.
    • Your neighbours may introduce themselves, but if they don’t, take the opportunity to say hello. They’ll likely have great tips about the area
    • Sort your bedroom – making your room a little more like yours with photos and personal items can make a big difference to comfort levels
    • Leave feedbackreviews for your solicitor, surveyor and removal company on reallymoving.com – you could win £100 of Amazon Vouchers!

    FAQs

    What are the things you need to do when you move? ›

    And if you haven't disposed of things you won't be bringing with you, you'll have to take care of them now.
    1. Buy moving insurance. ...
    2. Get rid of perishable items. ...
    3. Settle your local memberships. ...
    4. Gather all your records. ...
    5. Notify your insurance company. ...
    6. Find an internet provider. ...
    7. Find a new doctor, dentist, and vet. ...
    8. Plan your route.
    12 Aug 2015

    What should you not forget when moving house? ›

    12 Things People Usually Forget To Do When Moving House
    • Notifying the relevant people of your move. ...
    • Transferring school / medical records. ...
    • Redirect mail. ...
    • Defrosting your fridge / freezer. ...
    • Arranging a parking space for the removal van. ...
    • Writing down meter readings. ...
    • Packing an essentials box. ...
    • Look after your pet.
    7 Aug 2020

    What are 4 things you should do before you move in? ›

    Moving Checklist
    • Make an inventory of everything to be moved. ...
    • Sort out and donate any unwanted clothing or furniture. ...
    • Have a garage sale or list them online to get rid of unwanted items. ...
    • Start collecting moving supplies like boxes and newspaper for wrapping. ...
    • Submit a change of address form to your post office.

    What is the first thing to do after moving? ›

    Things To Do After You Move
    1. Schedule A Deep Clean. Your first thought may be to deep clean your new home. ...
    2. Unpack Your Supplies. ...
    3. Set Up Safety Measures For Kids And Pets. ...
    4. Change House Locks. ...
    5. Get A Security System Installed. ...
    6. Test Your Smoke Detectors And HVAC System. ...
    7. Update Your Address. ...
    8. Transfer Utilities.
    17 Aug 2022

    What are the five steps to moving on? ›

    Many people are familiar with the five stages of grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance—presented in psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross's 1969 book, On Death and Dying.
    ...
    Receive New Helpful Articles Weekly
    1. Anger. Anger at your ex-partner is common. ...
    2. Bargaining. ...
    3. Depression. ...
    4. Acceptance.
    27 Jul 2016

    What is the first thing you should pack when moving? ›

    Pack Decor & Books

    Items that are in your home purely for aesthetic purposes are good items to pack first when moving. This might include artwork, decor, books, magazines, and the like. These items are easy to pack first because chances are you won't need them during the move or the weeks preceding it.

    What do most people forget when moving? ›

    They can be forgotten tasks or options left unexplored.
    • 14 frequently forgotten items when moving and how to leave nothing behind.
    • Keepsakes and seasonal items. ...
    • Important documents. ...
    • Valuables. ...
    • Prescriptions and healthcare arrangements. ...
    • Making a Plan B when moving goes awry. ...
    • Outdoor plants and decorations. ...
    • Hidden cash.
    3 Feb 2020

    What is the most stressful thing about moving house? ›

    'Needing more space' was the most frequently cited reason for moving – 42% of respondents. Almost 1 in 2 movers (47%) said they experienced increased stress levels due to moving. Money worries are a big deal for buyers – 40% said what they dread most about moving is not having enough money to cover unexpected expenses.

    What do people usually forget when moving? ›

    These include dental records, medical records, veterinarian, and birth certificates. Valuables - Jewelry and other valuable items are sometimes forgotten as they are usually placed in hidden or well protected areas. Make sure that you have all of your expensive and valuable items packed before you begin your move.

    What should you not do when moving? ›

    What NOT to Pack When Moving
    1. Household cleaners. ...
    2. Lighter fluid. ...
    3. Fertilizer and Weed Killer. ...
    4. Perishables (moving the kitchen) ...
    5. Ammunition. ...
    6. Car Batteries. ...
    7. Moving Documents. ...
    8. Cash, Wills, Deeds, Jewelry, and Other Valuables.
    3 Feb 2016

    How do I prepare my new house before moving in? ›

    10 things to do before moving into a new house
    1. Connect your internet. ...
    2. Connect your energy. ...
    3. Have a plan for children and pets. ...
    4. Update friends and family with your new contact information. ...
    5. Change your address. ...
    6. Pack an un-packing box. ...
    7. Organise house and contents insurance. ...
    8. Have the new house professionally cleaned.
    19 Feb 2020

    Whats the first thing you should do before moving to the right? ›

    Explanation: If you intend to turn right, check your right-hand (offside) mirror first. All of your mirrors should be properly adjusted to give a clear view around and behind your vehicle.

    What do I need to remember to do when moving? ›

    Keep reading to discover more useful tips to make your move easier and less stressful.
    1. Print or Draw a Map of Your New Home. ...
    2. Start Sorting Through Your Things Early On. ...
    3. Start Packing Well in Advance. ...
    4. Make a List for Every Room. ...
    5. Pack a Box of Essentials for Moving Day. ...
    6. Check In With Your Moving Company.

    What brings good luck to a new home? ›

    News
    • Leave Your Old Broom Behind. It is a common new house superstition that you should purchase a new broom, leaving your old broom behind at your previous house. ...
    • Boil Milk. ...
    • Burn Sage. ...
    • Paint Your Porch Ceiling Blue. ...
    • Spread Out Salt. ...
    • Moving House On A Friday or Saturday.
    15 Mar 2021

    What is the best day to move in a new house 2022? ›

    Feng Shui Auspicious Dates For House Moving in 2022

    Cheng Day – Best day for all ceremonies. San He Day – A triple harmony day. Horse Day – 6th day of a lunar month. Ecliptic Day – Best day for all ceremonies.

    › move › visual-mov... ›

    You've followed your moving checklist to plan and organize a very successful move. Now, you've safely reached your new home and you can't wait to ma...
    When we teamed up with Rightmove to run a competition based on your removal horror stories, we were reminded just how many things people forget when they move. ...
    You just moved into your new home. And now what? How to organize your time with a new house checklist? What things to do when moving into a new house?

    How do I prepare my new house before moving in? ›

    10 things to do before moving into a new house
    1. Connect your internet. ...
    2. Connect your energy. ...
    3. Have a plan for children and pets. ...
    4. Update friends and family with your new contact information. ...
    5. Change your address. ...
    6. Pack an un-packing box. ...
    7. Organise house and contents insurance. ...
    8. Have the new house professionally cleaned.
    19 Feb 2020

    Who do I need to notify when I move UK? ›

    Pay for bills, let friends and family know you're moving
    • Your work.
    • Your bank, insurance, pension and credit card companies.
    • The council, electoral roll.
    • TV Licensing.
    • Doctor and dentist.
    • DVLA.
    • National Insurance / DSS offices.

    What should you do the day before moving house? ›

    10 things to do before your moving day
    • Notify utility companies and insurance providers. ...
    • Forward post. ...
    • Plan your journey. ...
    • Check if your removal company will disassemble furniture. ...
    • Have appliances professionally disconnected. ...
    • Clean your home. ...
    • Pack an overnight bag. ...
    • Find garage keys.

    What is the first thing to do in a new house? ›

    Here are some of the first things to do when you buy a new home.
    1. Secure your home. ...
    2. Purchase or review your home warranty. ...
    3. Connect the utilities. ...
    4. Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. ...
    5. Use your inspection report as a to-do list for maintenance. ...
    6. Refresh the paint. ...
    7. Refresh the flooring.
    6 May 2022

    What is the first thing to shift in a new house? ›

    Change outdoor locks

    Safety comes first! The moment you get the keys for the new house, get a new set of locks installed for the main or the outdoor door. You ca never be sure that the previous owners, brokers or maintenance people do not have had a hold of the key to that door.

    What should you move first when moving? ›

    Pack Decor & Books

    Items that are in your home purely for aesthetic purposes are good items to pack first when moving. This might include artwork, decor, books, magazines, and the like. These items are easy to pack first because chances are you won't need them during the move or the weeks preceding it.

    Do you have to contact HMRC when you move house? ›

    You need to tell HMRC if you've changed your name or address. How you contact HM Revenue and Customs ( HMRC ) to update your name or address depends on your situation. You'll also need to change your business records if you run a business.

    Do I need to tell the DVLA if I move house? ›

    You must update your driving licence, vehicle log book (V5C), Direct Debit for vehicle tax and other details when you move home. You do not need to tell us if you move temporarily (for example you're living away at university) if we can still contact you at your permanent address.

    Do I need to tell DWP if I move house? ›

    Changes to do with where you live

    Tell the DWP if: your rent goes up or down - this can change how much Universal Credit you're paid for housing. you move home. someone moves out of your home.

    Whats the first thing you should do before moving to the right? ›

    Explanation: If you intend to turn right, check your right-hand (offside) mirror first. All of your mirrors should be properly adjusted to give a clear view around and behind your vehicle.

    What should you not do when moving? ›

    What NOT to Pack When Moving
    1. Household cleaners. ...
    2. Lighter fluid. ...
    3. Fertilizer and Weed Killer. ...
    4. Perishables (moving the kitchen) ...
    5. Ammunition. ...
    6. Car Batteries. ...
    7. Moving Documents. ...
    8. Cash, Wills, Deeds, Jewelry, and Other Valuables.
    3 Feb 2016

    What happens on the day you move house? ›

    During the completion day, the property sale is finalised and the buyer can pick up the keys for their new house. Ownership will be transferred from the seller to the buyer, meaning the seller must begin moving out. For a smooth completion day, you should keep in touch with your chosen conveyancer as much as possible.

    › your-complete-movin... ›

    You wake up and suddenly remember it's a moving day and realises there are a million things left to do? Read our complete moving day checklist here!

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