Moving checklist

All of it. Now the logistics of moving… We're here to help. This checklist considers almost everything to make preparation, moving day and the first few days living in your new home a bit more smoother.

• A. Specifics to your new home
  A.

  Specifics to your new home

  Snagging and settling

  (See Hagan Snagging guide)

  • Conduct snagging survey following the guide here
  • Conduct a thorough snagging survey (ideally done by within 7 days)
  • Create a snagging list (cosmetic and functional issues - scratches, poor finishes, sticking doors etc.)
  • Keep dated records/photos of everything reported
  • Understand the process and timeline for repairs (some are urgent, others might be batched)

  Structural & safety

  (reference Hagan Snagging guide)

  • Be aware of drying - out period (open windows, avoid over-heating)
  • Expect minor cracks/shrinkage - it's normal, but report anything worrying
  • Ventilate regularly to reduce condensation
  • Monitor humidity and consider a dehumidifier if needed
• B. Moving
  B.

  Moving

  Moving logistics

  • Shop around and book a removals company or van hire. Even if you're moving from your parents, it's likely you'll need a van for a few days which will be cheaper.
  • Declutter and donate/sell unwanted items on Vinted, eBay, Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace etc.
  • Get free boxes (ask friends and colleagues), or order boxes, tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, marker pen or labels, vacuum bags for clothes.
  • Pack a first night box (see first night survival box below)
  • Arrange childcare or pet care for the move day.
  • Notify your employer.
  • Redirect mail/delivery services via Royal Mail, or register your address with Royal Mail (especially if not showing up yet on sat navs/Google Maps).
  • Address confirmation: When registering for broadband or utilities, use your official address as per your conveyancing paperwork as some systems lag behind.
  • Ensure utilities are sorted (electricity, gas, water & sewerage).
  • Ensure broadband is arranged a few weeks before you move (it can take time to set up).

  Packing essentials

  • Sturdy boxes in various sizes (see above).
  • Packing tape / gaffer tape (lots).
  • Bubble wrap and paper for fragile items (start saving old newspapers, paper from deliveries, etc.).
  • Freezer/Ziplock bags for screws/remote controls (tape these bags outside the box so they're easy to locate when you're unpacking).
  • Scissors and box cutters.
  • Buy cleaning products and pack them separately so they're easy to find.

  First night survival box

  Pack this last. Take it in your car. Label it clearly.

  • Bin bags
  • Toilet roll
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • A towel
  • Basic toiletries
  • Phone charger
  • Tea bags, coffee
  • Mugs, plastic/paper cups
  • Bottled water
  • Disposable plates and cutlery
  • Snacks
  • Painkillers

  Change of clothes and underwear

  • PJs
  • Bed linen and pillow
  • Tool kit and Allen keys
  • Torch
  • Cleaning wipes
  • Important documents & ID
  • Medications
  • Save all manuals and guides from Hagan guides onto your phone.

  Practical living

  • Check the window sizes for curtains or blinds beforehand
  • Toilet roll holders and towel rails
  • Lightbulbs or shades (some homes are handed over with basic fittings)
  • Address number or signage

  Move-in day

  House essentials

  • Put some card or a groundsheet down to protect your flooring.
  • Make a list or mental note of how you'd like to direct whoever's helping you.
  • Move the large items into each room first before boxes.
  • Label boxes noting the room and a write contents on top of box.
  • Keys (check you have all of them with you).
  • Locate and unpack cleaning products.
  • Locate stopcock (where to shut off water), fuse box, boiler, thermostat.
  • Check gas, water, electric meters.
  • Check heating/hot water is working.
  • Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
  • Check instructions for appliances from manuals saved to phone.
  • Set up broadband and WiFi router.
  • Unpack essentials first (bed, kettle, toiletries).
  • Clean the kitchen and fridge.
  • Test all locks on doors and windows.
  • Test all appliances (washing machine/dryer).
  • Test extractor fans and hob.
• C. After the move
  C.

  After the move

  Address change notifications

  • Bank and credit card
  • Insurance companies (car, life, pet, etc.)
  • Driving license (DVLA)
  • Employer and payroll
  • GP/dentist/opticians
  • Schools
  • Electoral roll
  • TV license
  • Subscriptions (Netflix, Amazon, etc.)

  Home comforts & upkeep

  • Set up bins and recycling
  • Register with new GP & dentist
  • Create maintenance to-do list (garden, boiler service, etc.)
  • Introduce yourself to the neighbours (use the opportunity to find out what day the bins are collected)
  • Make a list of local services (takeaways, plumbers, joiners, etc.)
  • Plan a little housewarming (or just a takeaway and a glass of wine)
  • Set reminders for service intervals (e.g. boiler after 1 year)