A clear, structured checklist to help you settle confidently and smoothly into your new property.
Before You Move In
Organise the essentials early to ensure a stress‑free moving day.
Admin & Utilities
- Set up your gas, electricity and water accounts
- Book broadband installation or transfer your existing service
- Arrange Royal Mail redirection
- Update your address with:
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- Banks & lenders
- Insurance providers
- Employer & HMRC
- GP/dentist
- DVLA
- Ensure home insurance begins at exchange
- Notify schools/childcare of your new address
- Request any house documents from the seller (manuals, guarantees, service history)
Moving Logistics
- Confirm a removals company
- Prepare an essential‑items box (kettle, toiletries, chargers, clothing, bedding)
- Arrange parking or access for the removals vehicle
- Confirm key collection time with your solicitor or agent
Move‑In Day Essentials
These checks protect your home and keep you covered for billing and safety.
Safety & Utilities
- Take photo evidence of all meter readings:
- Locate critical points in the home:
- Stopcock
- Fuse box
- Boiler & thermostat
- Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
- Check heating and hot water are functioning
Security
- Consider changing all external locks
- Ensure doors and windows close and lock securely
- Test any alarm or security systems
Property Condition Checks
Walk through the property while it’s still empty.
Internal
- Check for damp, leaks or water staining
- Test taps, showers and toilets
- Confirm appliances operate as expected (oven, hob, extractor, dishwasher, fridge)
- Check flooring, skirting boards and fixtures for damage
- Test every plug socket and light switch
External
- Check fences, sheds and outbuildings
- Identify boundaries and who is responsible for each area
- Inspect the condition of gutters, drains and outdoor lighting
Cleaning & First Tasks
These simple jobs make your new home feel fresh and ready.
- Deep clean the kitchen and bathrooms
- Replace toilet seats
- Refresh or upgrade bulbs to energy‑efficient options
- Replace extractor fan and appliance filters if needed
- Bleed radiators
- Clean internal windows
After You’ve Moved In
Within the first 1–2 weeks, complete the final administrative tasks.
- Register for council tax
- Update your TV licence
- Register on the electoral roll
- Activate broadband and set up the Wi‑Fi network
- Review or update protection policies (life, income, critical illness)
- Store all house paperwork in a “Home File”
Safety, Maintenance & Peace of Mind
Long‑term habits that protect your home and investment.
- Schedule an annual boiler service
- Set reminders for gutter cleaning, smoke alarm testing and routine maintenance
- Consider smart home upgrades (thermostat, cameras, security lighting)
- Review home emergency cover and relevant insurances annually
Make It Your Own
Turn the house into your home.
- Plan decorating themes and colours
- Measure and order furniture
- Install curtains/blinds
- Arrange garden improvements
- Introduce yourself to neighbours
