National Conveyancing Week 2025 Blogs - Moving Made Easy: A Step-by-Step Checklist for a Stress-Free Move

Moving home can be a stressful experience, with the added pressure of trying to remember what you need to do both before and after you have moved. So, here is a checklist to help you stay organised:

1. Confirm Dates

• Ensure exchange and completion dates are agreed upon with your solicitor.
• Book time off work if necessary. 

2. Arrange Removals 

• Research and book a reputable removals company in advance.
• If moving yourself, hire a van and gather packing materials. 

3. Notify Utility Providers

• Inform gas, electricity and water providers of your moving date.
• Take final meter readings on moving day and provide them to the suppliers. 

4. Declutter and Pack Efficiently 

• Sort belongings into categories - keep, donate, recycle or discard.
• Label boxes clearly to make unpacking easier. 

5. Update Insurance Policies

• Ensure home and contents insurance covers the new property.
• Consider taking out removals insurance if required. 

6. Arrange Broadband and TV Services

• Notify your current provider and arrange installation at your new home. 

7. Final Checks Before Leaving 

• Ensure all windows and doors are locked.
• Take a final walkthrough to check for forgotten items.
• Leave behind keys, instruction manuals, and any necessary paperwork for the new owners. 

8. Collect Keys For Your New Home 

• Arrange key collection with your solicitor or estate agent.
• Inspect the property upon arrival to ensure everything is as expected. 

9. Change Your Address

• Update your address with banks, insurance providers, HMRC, DVLA, and other key institutions (don't forget to update your address on your V5c - Vehicle Ownership Document - one that most people forget!)
• Redirect mail via Royal Mail to catch any missed updates. 

10. Register With New Local Services

• Find a new GP, dentist and optician if necessary.
• Register children with new schools if applicable. 

11. Set Up Utilities and Council Tax

• Take meter readings at your new home and provide them to suppliers.
• Contact the local council to update council tax details. 

12. Unpack and Settle In

• Prioritise unpacking essentials like kitchenware, toiletries and bedding.
• Explore the neighbourhood and introduce yourself to neighbours. 

13. Review Legal Documents 

• Ensure you have received all necessary post-completion documents from your conveyancer.
• Store these safely for future reference. 

Our conveyancing team is here to help if you have any queries.