Your Complete Moving House Checklist

Moving house is often cited as one of life's most stressful events. However, with the right preparation and organization, it doesn't have to be. Here's a comprehensive moving checklist, to help you stay on top of your pre-move admin and make your move as smooth as possible.

Getting Organised for Your Move

As moving day approaches, there's plenty to organize. By preparing in the weeks leading up to the big day, you can significantly reduce stress and ensure everything goes according to plan.

Choose a Removals Company

Selecting a reliable removals company can make all the difference. Ask for recommendations from friends and family, and aim to get three quotes. The removals company should visit your home to assess the number of items you have and provide an accurate quote and determine the size of the moving van required.

Declutter Your Home

This is the perfect time to get rid of items you no longer need. Decluttering not only lightens the load for the removals lorry but also helps create more space in your new home, especially if you're downsizing. Dispose of bulky items where possible to make the move more manageable.

Order Packing Materials

While your removals company might provide some packing boxes, it’s often not enough. You can order additional boxes, bubble wrap, tape, and other packaging materials from various online suppliers to ensure you have everything you need.

Book Time Off Work

Since completion dates usually fall on weekdays, you'll need to book your moving date as leave from work. Inform your employer about your upcoming move and the potential need to book a day off at short notice.

Two Weeks Before You Move

Inform Service Providers

Notify your phone, broadband, and utility companies of your move. Arrange for final meter readings to settle any outstanding bills and decide whether you’ll continue with their services at your new home. Schedule reconnection dates as needed.

Arrange Royal Mail Redirection

To ensure you keep receiving your post, use Royal Mail's redirection service, which can be set for 3, 6, or 12 months.

Create a List of People to Inform

Make a list of everyone who needs to know about your move. Prioritize this list so you can notify the most important contacts first, such as:

  1. Family, Friends, and Employer - Inform key people in your life about your new address. This includes any organizations or clubs you are involved with.
  2. Banks and Financial Institutions - Update your bank, credit card companies, pension providers, and any other financial institutions with your new address for verification and security purposes.
  3. Driving Licence and DVLA - Contact the DVLA to change the address on your driving licence. You may also need to update your photo.
  4. Health Providers - Notify your GP and dentist of your new address. If you need to register with new providers, they will transfer your records accordingly. Update your address with the NHS if necessary.
  5. Council Tax - Inform your local council of your new address and moving date. They will adjust your council tax bill and process any refunds if applicable.

Start Packing Non-Essential Items

Begin packing items you won't need before the move. This includes taking down curtains and disassembling any furniture that will not be used until after the move.

Arrange Buildings Insurance

Ensure you have buildings insurance for your new property before the exchange of contracts, as this is typically a condition of your mortgage.

The Week Before

Pack Most Items

Pack everything except essentials for the final week. Only leave out clothes, kitchen essentials, toiletries, any necessary furniture and fixtures and fittings.

Pay Outstanding Bills

Settle any final bills from utility companies to avoid any last-minute issues.

Inform Remaining Contacts

Notify the remaining people on your list about your move, especially those you didn't contact initially.

The Day Before

Last-Minute Packing

At this point, only items such as tea bags, essential kitchenware, toiletries, and your clothes for moving day should remain unpacked.

Defrost Fridge and Freezer

If you’re taking your fridge and freezer, defrost them now and place towels underneath to catch any water.

Clean Your Home

If you have time, give your house a final clean as a courtesy to the new owners.

Moving Day

Take Final Meter Readings

Take readings for gas, electricity, and water meters for your records and to provide to your utility companies.

Ensure Property is Empty

Once the removals van is packed, do a final sweep of your home to ensure nothing is left behind.

Secure the Property

Lock all doors and windows. Leave the window keys in the locks for the new owners. Finally, hand the keys to your estate agent.

Find Out How Much Your Property is Worth

If you’re considering moving, it’s essential to know the value of your current property. Contact Felicity J. Lord for a free, no-obligation property valuation to help you get started on your next move.