Read our new, updated Moving House Checklist for everything you need to do in preparation for a house move. Or, better still, print out a copy to keep with you to help you plan for a stress-free move. Keep reading or just skip to the end and download the printable version.
1. Plan and Organise:
- Fix your moving date and book the day off work (if necessary).
- Give notice to your landlord (if applicable).
- Research and book a reliable removals company or hire a van for a DIY move.
- Research and arrange a new child-minder, nursery or school place if needed.
- Book kennels or a cattery for the move if needed for pets.
2. Declutter and Sort:
- Start going through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate or discard.
- Gather important documents, such as passports, and keep them in a safe place.
- Return any borrowed items to friends or family.
- For more details see our Ultimate Guide to Moving House.
3. Change of Address and Utilities:
- Set up mail forwarding to your new address with the Post Office for 3 – 6 months.
- Inform banks and credit card companies of your new address and moving date.
- Arrange for utility disconnection at your old home and connection at the new one.
4. Notify Everyone:
- Inform your employer, HMRC and insurance providers about your move.
- Inform friends and family about your new address.
- Notify the council of your change of address and cancel council tax payments.
- Notify phone and internet providers of new address and the moving date.
ULTIMATE GUIDE TO MOVING HOUSE
For more help and advice why not read our expert guide
READ THE MOVING HOUSE GUIDE NOW
5. Start Packing Early:
- Gather packing materials: boxes, tape, labels, bubble wrap and marker pens.
- As soon as possible, begin packing non-essential items.
- Put labels on sides of boxes showing what is inside and which room it belongs to.
- Pack fragile items with care and use proper padding.
- Keep essential items separate for easy access during the move.
6. Prepare for Moving Day:
- Confirm the removal company’s arrival time or coordinate help with a DIY move.
- Pack a separate bag with essential items for the first few days in your new home.
- Empty and defrost your fridge and freezer (if applicable).
7. Final Checks on Moving Day:
- Double-check each room to ensure nothing is left behind.
- Read gas, electricity and water meters and take photos of the readings.
- Turn off lights, lock windows, and secure your old home.
- Leave all the sets of keys as agreed with the estate agent or letting agent.
- Take photos or videos of the condition of your old home for reference.
8. Settling into Your New Home:
- Clean your new home before moving in – it’ll be easier without your belongings.
- Unpack essential items first and gradually unpack the rest.
- Register at a local doctor’s surgery and dentist if you are moving to a new area
- Update your driving license, and vehicle registration document.
- Notify TV Licensing and voter registration of your new address
Good luck with your move!
MOVING HOUSE CHECKLIST
Why not download our printable Moving House Checklist
DOWNLOAD NOW