The moving home checklist

1. Send your notice in

You must give your notice of intention to leave your landlord or estate agent if you rent. You should check how long the notice period is. Sometimes it's just one month. Other times it could be two. You may have a break clause if you've lived in your current residence for less than one year. Before you notify anyone, make sure that you know the preferred date.

2. Declutter and book a removals company

This is a great opportunity to organize your belongings. You will need to provide an estimate of the number of items that you are moving when you call your removals company. British Association of Removers may be a good place to start when choosing a removals company.
Donate anything you don't use - You can start packing your non-essential possessions, or temporarily storing larger items. You should have enough packaging materials and boxes.

3. Take a look at your pets and children

You may need to notify the old school about the address change if you are moving furry or small family members. If you have to book kennels for your pets' moving dates, make sure that you do so well in advance. You should think about the way your pets will be moved, and make arrangements for their care on your moving day.

4. Update Your Details

You will need to update information in many places. Consider who you should notify. You will need to register for a new dentist and doctor if you are moving to a different area. You can include your existing care providers in the list you must change your address.

Notify who you are notifying of a change in address

• For council tax purposes, the local council
• Your employer
• Your utility companies (Gas & Electric).
• Your GP & Dentist
• Your internet and phone providers
• Your bank(s).
• The DVLA
• TV licensing
• Inland Revenue
• Electoral roll (updating registration)
• Your insurance providers (including travel, pets and car insurance)

You should make sure that you have insurance for your new home.

5. Make sure you check your car and route

Make sure your car is serviced and your tyres are checked if you plan to drive a long distance on moving day. Make sure you have a route plan and that there are stops for fuel or breaks.

6. Get ready to pack up and get down

Two weeks before the big day, you should start packing. You will need to pack as much as possible before the big day arrives. This will allow you to pack your boxes with ease and make sure they are labeled in a sensible way. Start clearing out your kitchen cabinets, and defrosting and drying your fridge/freezer. Keep an eye on your garage and loft!

7. Tell your friends

Notifying your family and friends about your new address is a good idea. You can also ask for their support and help if needed. You should also notify your neighbors, and make sure they are able to accommodate your moving van. This will help you avoid any problems on the day.

8. Officially Confirmed

Make sure you confirm with your estate agent or solicitor that the move can proceed as planned. It is important to be informed about any delays in advance. This should be done at least a week in advance of your move.

9. Keep Your Valuables Close

You should keep valuables, important documents, and paperwork safe from the chaos of packing. All documents that you will need to move are included. This can be kept in your car for the day of the move.

Find out where all your important documents are located, such as

• Documentation for tax
• Birth certificates
• Certificate of marriage
• Passport
• Driving license

10. The Day Before

It can be difficult to feel relaxed the day before you move. You should ensure that your phone is charged and that you have all your essential items in a marked box. Double-check your route with your removal company.

How to pack your first night at your new place

For you

• Bedding
• Toilet paper
• Toiletries for the entire family: (toothpaste and toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, etc.)
• Hand soap
• Towels for every member of the family
• Pyjamas for the whole family
• Work clothes
• First aid kit

For the children

• Bedding/travel cot
• Favourite toy if necessary
• Change of clothes
• Entertainment: iPad/laptop/charger, headphones, crayons/colouring book, few toys
• Night light

For pets

• Pet food
• Lead/collar
• Toys
• Water and food bowls
• Litterbox/waste bags
• Crate
• All medications

To Eat

• Paper plates/cups
• Basic cutlery
• Takeaway or dinner?
• Breakfast items
• Snacks
• Water
• Kettle, tea/coffee, filters, mugs, milk, squash
• Corskcrew/bottle opener/something bubbly

For Cleaning & DIY

• Basic cleaning supplies/rubber gloves
• Bin liners
• Screwdriver/hammer/pliers/scissors
• Torch/lightbulbs
• Phone charger
• Extension cable
• Pen and paper
• Wet and paper towels

11. Get rid of your boxes

Your boxes should be moved downstairs or to a more convenient place the night before. It will be easier to transport your belongings to the van if you can gather them in just one or two locations.

12. Record Meter Readings

Record your utility meter readings on the day. This includes electricity, gas, and water. Take photos of each item so that you can confirm your move with your provider.

13. One last walkthrough

One last time, go through your house. Are you forgetting to clean your sheets or have you left toiletries in the bathroom? Are your greenhouses and garages clear? Clear away all debris.

14. Loading the Van

If you are doing the loading yourself, try to group your items by room. If you have movers to help you, make sure they are aware of what you're taking and what you're keeping.

15. Say Goodbye

You will want to make sure everything is clean before you say goodbye to your home. You will need to clean your home from top-to-bottom and get rid of any junk. As you have organized, don't forget to give all sets of keys to the new owners. If necessary, make sure to leave keys for any exterior doors or interior doors.

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