The ultimate house moving checklist
Very few people enjoy moving to a new house since it is a major disturbance. However, with the correct preparation and forewarning of any likely hindrances, stress levels can be kept to the minimum.
There are countless things to be done when moving to a new house, and the number of things to be remembered is enough to overwhelm you. So, we’ve put together a checklist to go through to ensure you don’t forget a thing.
Two months before the big move:
- Book a removal company
- Give your landlord a notice of renting
- Buy your packing supplies – boxes, storage, tape, etc
- Sort your belongings – Get rid/donate things you don’t need, you wouldn’t want to clutter your new home
- Begin packing unessential items
- Confirm new school placements and inform the existing school (if you have children)
- Book kennels or a cattery in advance
One month before the big move:
- If you have a long drive ahead of you, have your tyres checked and car serviced
- Register with a new local doctor/dentist (if moving to a new area)
- Inform your local council of your change of address and cancel council tax payments
- Inform your phone and internet providers, DVLA, bank and TV licensing of your change of address
- Inform Inland Revenue
- Update your insurance providers. Make sure you have home insurance sorted and ready for the day you move in
- Confirm your moving arrangements with moving firm
- Start putting items you don’t use every day into boxes and label them – e.g. seasonal clothes
- Arrange for childcare and a pet sitter if possible
Two weeks to the big move:
- Let your family and friends know of your change of address
- Update your address for online subscriptions
- Clean your house as you pack
- Arrange for your mails to be re-directed to your new home
One week to the big move:
- Confirm plans with your solicitor and estate agents that the move is going to plan
- Ensure your packing is coming to a close – double check the attic and garage
- Ask your neighbours to allow for room for a removal van in front of the house
- Empty and clean the fridge/freezer
- Clear out the kitchen cupboards
- Organise the move route
- Remind family/friends you’ll need a hand next week
- Pack valuables and important documents in a safe place to take in the car with you
The day before the big move:
- Make sure you charge your mobile phone
- Put all practical items in an easily accessible place; e.g. tape measure packing knife, extension lead, etc
- Make a first night essentials box; e.g. medication
- Pick up your hire van/ confirm tomorrow’s schedule with the van company
- Take all the boxes downstairs to make loading into the van easier for tomorrow
- Put all valuables and important documents in a safe place to take in the car with
Moving day to do list:
- Make a record of any utility meter readings for water, gas and electricity. Take a photo of the meter for the record.
- Strip the beds and curtains
- Do the final checks of the bathrooms for toiletries
Loading the van:
- Instruct the movers on what is moving
- Complete the final checks of the house
- Leave the keys as arranged for the landlord/ new owners
CONTACT US
Versus Law solicitors provide Conveyancing services for those ready to buy their home. Interested in learning how we can help you manage your conveyancing? Get a FREE consultation with one of our Manchester conveyancing solicitors by contacting us today on 0161 249 5087 or email us at property@versuslaw.co.uk. If you prefer, you can use our online conveyancing calculator.