Moving House Checklist

Moving home is one of the most logistically demanding events most people will experience. This checklist breaks the process into manageable stages — from the moment you accept an offer to the day you hand over the keys.

When You Accept an Offer (8–12 Weeks Before Moving)

Once an offer is accepted, the clock starts. Use this time to get organised:

Instruct a solicitor or conveyancer if you have not already done so
Start researching removal companies — get at least three quotes
Begin decluttering — sell, donate, or dispose of items you will not be taking
Notify your landlord if you are renting (check your notice period)
Start gathering documents your solicitor will need (title documents, property information)
Check your buildings and contents insurance — when does cover need to transfer?

4–6 Weeks Before Moving

With a moving date in sight, start making practical arrangements:

Book your removal company — popular dates fill up quickly
Confirm your moving date with your solicitor, estate agent, and removal company
Start packing non-essential items — books, seasonal clothing, decorative items
Arrange storage if needed for items that won't fit in your new home immediately
Notify your children's school of the move and arrange transfer to a new school if needed
Contact your employer's HR department to update your address
Begin notifying key organisations of your change of address (see Change of Address Checklist)

1–2 Weeks Before Moving

Final preparations in the run-up to moving day:

Confirm the moving date and time with your removal company
Pack the majority of your belongings — leave out only essentials
Label all boxes clearly with contents and destination room
Prepare an "essentials box" for the first night — kettle, mugs, bedding, toiletries, phone chargers
Take meter readings at your current property
Notify utility suppliers of your moving date (see Utilities Checklist)
Arrange for mail to be redirected via Royal Mail
Confirm key collection arrangements with your estate agent or solicitor
Defrost the freezer

Moving Day

On the day itself, stay organised and keep communication lines open:

Be ready for the removal team at the agreed time
Do a final walk-through of every room, including loft, garage, and outbuildings
Check all cupboards, drawers, and storage spaces are empty
Take final meter readings and photograph them
Hand over all keys, fobs, alarm codes, and any relevant documents to the buyer
Confirm with your solicitor that completion has taken place before handing over keys
Lock up and hand over the keys via your estate agent or directly to the buyer