A moving home checklist is a structured timeline of everything you need to do when relocating — from accepting an offer and arranging your mortgage through to collecting the keys. Following a week-by-week plan prevents costly mistakes and reduces stress.
Week 1–2: Offer Accepted
- ✅ Instruct a solicitor/conveyancer
- ✅ Apply for your mortgage (or instruct your fee-free broker to submit)
- ✅ Book a property survey
- ✅ If selling: inform your estate agent and solicitor
- ✅ Start decluttering — less stuff = cheaper removals
- ✅ Review your life insurance and protection needs
Week 3–6: Legal Process & Preparations
- ✅ Solicitor conducts searches (local authority, environmental, water)
- ✅ Mortgage valuation completed by lender
- ✅ Get at least 3 removal company quotes
- ✅ Book your preferred removal company
- ✅ Start packing non-essential items
- ✅ Research buildings & contents insurance — needed from exchange
- ✅ Notify landlord if renting (check notice period)
- ✅ Research schools if moving to a new area with children
Week 7–10: Exchange & Final Preparations
- ✅ Exchange contracts — legally binding commitment. Pay deposit (usually 10%).
- ✅ Buildings insurance must be in place from exchange date
- ✅ Confirm completion date with all parties
- ✅ Set up Royal Mail redirect (gov.uk/royal-mail-redirection)
- ✅ Contact utility providers to arrange final readings and transfers
- ✅ Notify council tax — inform old and new councils
- ✅ Update address with bank, employer, DVLA, GP, dentist
- ✅ Pack remaining items, label boxes by room
Moving Day
- ✅ Solicitor confirms completion and you receive keys
- ✅ Read gas and electric meters — photograph them
- ✅ Take photos of the empty property for your records
- ✅ Check all windows and doors lock properly
- ✅ Locate stopcock, fuse box, and boiler controls
- ✅ Change the locks (recommended for security)
- ✅ Keep important documents, keys, and essentials in a separate "first night" bag
First Week: Settling In
- ✅ Register with a new GP and dentist
- ✅ Register on the electoral roll at your new address
- ✅ Set up broadband (order 2–3 weeks ahead if possible)
- ✅ Book a boiler service if the previous owners didn't provide a recent certificate
- ✅ Meet your neighbours
- ✅ Check your mortgage overpayment options for the new deal
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to move house in the UK?
- From offer accepted to completion typically takes 8–12 weeks, though complex chains can take longer. The legal process (conveyancing) is usually the longest part.
- How much does it cost to move house?
- Typical costs include solicitor fees (£1,000–£2,000), stamp duty (varies by price), survey (£300–£700), removal company (£500–£1,500), and sundries. Budget £3,000–£5,000+ in total on top of your deposit.
- Do I need buildings insurance from exchange?
- Yes — from the moment you exchange contracts, you're legally committed to buy. If the property is damaged between exchange and completion, it's your problem. Your mortgage lender will also require buildings insurance.
- What is exchange of contracts?
- Exchange is when both buyer and seller sign and swap contracts, making the purchase legally binding. You pay your deposit at exchange. Before exchange, either party can walk away without penalty.
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