When it comes to stressful life events, moving house is always up there, hovering near the top of the list. Ask anyone who’s done it, and they’ll most likely agree.
So, we’ve created a handy guide to ease you through the process — from the moment you decide to move, until the day you settle into your new home.
2 months before
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If you're renting, confirm your moving date with your current landlord or check your tenancy agreement notice period.
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If you're buying, it’s a good idea to get all the legal bits in place early, such as life insurance (which is especially important if you’ll have a mortgage).
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Again, if buying, pay close attention to the property survey. Any pre-existing damage may not be covered under your home insurance – all the more reason to get everything fixed before you agree to buy.
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If you have home contents cover, check whether your policy includes removals. If not, speak to your removal company as they should be able to provide relevant cover.
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Check whether your valuables need additional insurance.
6 weeks before…
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Decide what to take to your new home and where you’re going to put everything.
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Start getting rid of things you no longer need. You can give things to charity, hold a car boot sale, or pass things on to friends. Moving house is a great time for a good sort out.
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Make a full inventory of your possessions. If they’re lost or damaged in the move, it’ll be easier to make a claim if you have a record of what condition your belongings were in and how they were packed.
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Get removal quotes and references from local companies - check their cover limits and any flexibility with date changes.
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If you're not using professional removers, ask friends and family to help. Start to collect boxes, tape and wrap ready for packing.
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Book extra storage space if you think you’ll need it.
1 month before
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Notify utilities companies, banks and insurance companies of your new address.
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Switch your home insurance to your new address.
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Change all other relevant direct debits and standing orders.
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Register at your new local GP and dentist if you're moving to a new area.
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Arrange for your post to be forwarded to your new address using Royal Mail’s redirection service.
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Send out change of address emails and messages to friends and family.
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If you need furniture or carpets for your new home, order them now and arrange delivery for when you move in.
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Don't forget to clear out lofts, sheds, storage rooms and outside spaces.
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If you’re leaving a rental property, check your tenancy agreement. You may need to have it professionally cleaned when you move out. If so, get it organised in advance.
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If you’d like to have your new house professionally cleaned before you move in, now’s the time to organise it.
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Cancel local services and memberships that you’ll no longer need, such as your gym membership or co-working spaces. You’ll often need to give a month’s notice.
2 weeks before
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Finalise all the important details with your removal company and estate agent; confirm times, contact numbers, parking and directions.
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Arrange for children and pets to be taken care of on your moving day – ask friends and family if they can help out.
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If it’s not included with your removal company service, book additional services such as disassembling/reassembling furniture and un-plumbing the dishwasher.
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Settle any outstanding bills.
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Go through your cupboards, fridge and freezer to make sure there's no food left when you move out.
1 week before
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Arrange a time to collect the keys for your new home from the estate agent or landlord.
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Gather all the keys from your old home for the new owners or tenants.
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Make arrangements to pay for your move. Ask for receipts of any deposits paid.
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Defrost the fridge and the freezer – they should be completely empty and dry before moving.
On the day you move out
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Take notes or photos of all utility meter readings for water, electricity and gas.
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Make sure the removal team knows which boxes and items are fragile – use labels.
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When the movers have completed packing, check your inventory again – if everything is accounted for, sign and you're ready to go.
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It’s a good idea to walk around the house for one final check. Look inside cupboards and behind any furniture that’s staying behind.
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Hand over the keys to the new owners or the estate agent.
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Make sure all windows and doors are locked, and utilities are switched off.
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Pack a kettle, teabags, coffee, mugs, milk and sugar in a separate bag to take with you, along with any snacks you might need.
On the day you move in
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Pop the kettle on, have some biscuits and enjoy a break with your friends, family and the removal team, before you start unpacking.
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When you're ready, give instructions to the removal team on what needs to be moved and where.
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Once again, account for each item on your inventory. Make sure you're happy with everything before the removal team leaves.
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Did you read the utility meters? Write down details or take pictures.
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Check you have all the keys you need.
- Take a deep breath – you did it! Enjoy your new home.
