Moving House Checklist

Having a detailed moving home checklist will help you stay on track, making your move stress-free and efficient. Moving home is an exciting but stressful experience that requires careful planning and organization. Without a clear checklist, it’s easy to forget important tasks, leading to unnecessary last-minute stress. From sorting out legal matters to packing and hiring a removals company, every step plays a vital role in ensuring a smooth transition.

Preparing for the Move

Notify Important Contacts

One of the first steps when moving house is to update your address with all necessary organizations. This includes:
✔ Banks and financial institutions (to avoid missing statements or important letters)
✔ Insurance providers (home, car, life, health)
✔ Utility providers (gas, electricity, water, broadband)
✔ Subscription services (magazines, online orders, streaming services)
✔ Employer, doctor, dentist, and schools if you have children
✔ Royal Mail redirection service to ensure you don’t miss any important post

Sort Out Legal and Financial Matters

Before moving, you must complete all necessary legal and financial tasks, such as:
✔ Hiring a conveyancing solicitor to handle paperwork and contracts
✔ Arranging a home survey to check the property’s condition
✔ Securing buildings insurance from the day contracts are exchanged

Declutter and Organize

Moving is the perfect time to declutter and reduce the number of items you need to transport.
✔ Donate, sell, or recycle items you no longer need
✔ Store seasonal or rarely used items in a storage unit
✔ Arrange for council collection of unwanted furniture

Choosing a Removals Company

✔ Compare quotes from different Ealing removal companies
✔ Decide if you need full-service movers or a man and van
✔ Book at least 4-6 weeks in advance to get the best price
✔ Check if the removals company offers insurance for your belongings

Packing and Preparing Your Belongings

Gather Packing Supplies

✔ Sturdy moving boxes, bubble wrap, tape, and labels
✔ Ask your removals company if they provide packing materials

Pack Room by Room

✔ Start with non-essential items (books, decorations, seasonal clothes)
✔ Use a labeling system to make unpacking easier
✔ Keep fragile items well-protected with extra padding

Dismantle Furniture

✔ Take apart large furniture to make moving easier
✔ Store small parts in labeled bags

Pack a Moving Day Essentials Box

✔ Toiletries, kettle, cups, snacks, phone chargers, and important documents

Handling Utilities and Services

✔ Notify energy suppliers and take final meter readings
✔ Transfer or set up broadband, water, gas, and electricity
✔ Cancel or transfer TV licensing and council tax
✔ Apply for a new parking permit if required

Moving Day Checklist

✔ Walk through your old home to check nothing is left behind
✔ Clean the house before leaving (or hire a cleaning service)
✔ Leave a helpful guide for the new owners (bin days, utility providers)
✔ Check the condition of your new home before unpacking
✔ Ensure water, electricity, and heating are working

After the Move: Settling In

✔ Turn on all appliances and check for any issues
✔ Unpack essentials first, then move on to non-urgent boxes
✔ Meet your new neighbors and get familiar with the area
✔ Register with a new GP and dentist
✔ Update vehicle registration and driving license if necessary

Conclusion

Moving house doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you follow a structured checklist. From notifying key contacts to hiring movers, packing, and setting up utilities, this guide ensures no important steps are missed. By planning ahead and staying organized, you can make your move smooth and hassle-free. Follow this checklist, and you’ll be settling into your new home with ease!