Moving property checklist

We know for some that moving house can be one of the most stressful things that a person can do in their lives.

However, if you are organised and prepared, it doesn't have to be that way. In our latest blog post, our moving property checklist will help you keep your move as stress-free and organised as possible!

We have split this list into a manageable timeline, so you're not overwhelmed and you know what tasks need to be completed when.

A month before your moving date

• Organise your removals - now is the time to get quotes from removal companies or look into van hire if you are doing it yourself (we'd also suggest getting your friends and family booked in to help if you are doing it yourself!)
• Double check your home insurance - make sure that you have cover from the day you take ownership of your new home as well as what would happen should any item be damaged when it's being moved (also check this with your removal company if you go down this route.)
• Keep, sell, donate, - Now is the perfect time to have a sort through your things and pick out anything you no longer need. Instead of turning to the tip, why not sell unwanted items or donate them to charity. Not only can you help people in need, but you will helping the environment by reducing landfill waste.
• Inventory - Now that you have gone through everything, put together a list of all your items and make sure you pass this onto your removal company (if you're using one).
• Create your contact list - Now is also the time to put together a list of people and companies you will need to inform about your move (e.g. utility companies, banks, post office, insurance etc.)
• Sort your packaging supplies - If you are responsible for your packaging items such as boxes, bubble wrap etc. be sure to sort this now so you have it all in hand for when it's time to pack.
• Consider your storage needs - If you are downsizing, you may want to consider storage facilities for larger items of furniture that may not fit. This can allow you to get into your new home and assess the space before deciding whether it can be used or it can be sold.

2 weeks before your moving date

• Start packing the non-essentials - It is definitely much easier to break your packing into stages rather than to do it all in the one go. Now is the time to start putting away those things such as books, your out of season clothes and crockery items that rarely get used. Also remember to label every box - it makes everyone's lives easier!
• Inform people you're moving - Time to get out that list you created a few weeks prior and start informing people you are moving.
• Arrange a postal redirect - Whilst you have done all you can to make sure everyone has your new address, there is always that crossover period where some post will be sent with your old address. It is definitely worth arranging a redirect with the post office to ensure you don't miss anything important. More information on this can be found here.

1 week before your moving date

• Confirm everything with your movers - This is more appropriate if you are using a removal company, but during the final week we advise that you contact your movers to confirm everything is in order in advance of your move. Confirming they have the correct addresses / contact information will ensure it all goes smoothly on the day.
• Final stages of packing - By now you should have made good headway on your packing, so you should be into the final stages during your last week before you move. Again, remember to label each box as you go with what it contains and what room it needs to go in at the new property.

1 day before your moving date

• Empty those cupboards - One of the last packing jobs is to empty your kitchen cupboards, along with defrosting your freezer.
• Pack a 'moving day survival box' - Now this is very important! Keep aside a box of on the day essentials to help you get through your moving day. Things such as tea, coffee, mugs, biscuits, loo roll, cleaning supplies are all things you will need on the day. Also, it is well worth keeping things such as bed linen & towels in there too.

Moving day!

• Meter readings - It's one of those jobs that always gets forgotten, but it is important to take final meter readings before you leave the property.
• Turn things off - As you prepare to leave the property, make sure everything has been switched off (e.g. appliances).
• Cleaning - Now that boxes have been loaded out and you're left with an empty property, now is the time to give the property a final clean before you leave.
• Locking up - As you do your final checks, make sure everything that needs to be is locked, for example, windows, garage doors.
• Last checks - One final thing to do once once the property is empty and freshly cleaned is to have one final check around the property to make sure you haven't missed anything.
• Key drop-off and collection - Once you are ready to leave the property, you can head to the solicitor's to drop off off your keys and pick up your new ones.

Yes, moving home can be stressful, but it definitely isn't as stressful as some people say. Be sure to follow these handy tips and you will ensure your move goes as smoothly as possible. And if you have any questions, just get in touch.