Moving Home Checklist – What to Do Before and After You Move

✅ Moving House Checklist: Before You Move

1. Start with a Moving Prep List

Begin planning at least 4–6 weeks in advance.
Create a moving to-do checklist and timeline.
Declutter and donate or recycle unwanted items.
Book a removals company or van hire early.
Start packing non-essentials and label boxes by room.
This moving house tick list will help you stay on track and avoid last-minute chaos.

2. Update Your Address: The Essential Changing Address Checklist

Notify all relevant organisations of your new address:

HMRC
DVLA (for your driving licence and vehicle logbook)
Your employer
Banks and credit card providers
Utility suppliers
GP, dentist, and optician
Subscription services and loyalty programmes

Use Royal Mail’s address update checklist service to redirect your post for peace of mind.

3. Register for Council Tax

Contact your new local council to register and set up payments. You may be eligible for a discount if you live alone or are a student.

4. Sort Out Utilities

Take final meter readings at your old property.

On the move-in day, take new readings and contact the current suppliers.
You’re free to switch to a new provider if you prefer.
Unsure who supplies your energy? Use Ofgem’s supplier checker.
This step is a must on any household moving checklist.

5. Set Up Broadband and TV

Compare deals and book installation early.
Some buildings have preferred suppliers – check with your landlord or letting agent.

6. Arrange Contents Insurance

Your landlord’s insurance won’t cover your belongings.

A contents insurance policy protects against theft, fire, and water damage.
Consider accidental damage to cover for extra peace of mind.

7. Apply for a Parking Permit (if needed)

If your new home is in a controlled parking zone, apply for a resident’s permit via your letting agent or your local council to avoid fines.

8. Check Your Tenancy Agreement

Understand your responsibilities, notice period, and what is included in the rent.
Know who to contact for repairs or emergencies.

9. Apply for Benefits (if eligible)

You may qualify for Universal Credit or Housing Benefit to help with rent. Apply via gov.uk.

10. Review the Building Rules

If you’re moving into a flat or managed property, read the residents’ handbook or building rules. These may include:

Quiet hours
Bin collection days
Pet policies
Shared space etiquette

🏡 Moving into a New Home Checklist: After You Move

1. Complete the Inventory Report

Inspect the property and note any damage or missing items.
Take dated photos of any issues and send them to your landlord or letting agent.
Common issues to look for:
Stains or scuffs on walls
Damaged flooring
Faulty appliances
Cracked tiles or windows
Overpainted sockets or switches

This is a key step in any checklist for moving into a new home.

2. Take Meter Readings

Submit your initial readings to avoid being overcharged.

3. Set Up Rent Payments

Set up a standing order or direct debit to ensure your rent is paid on time.

Keep a record of your payments.

4. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Your landlord is responsible for installation, but you should test them regularly.

Report any faults immediately.

5. Get to Know Your Neighbours

Introduce yourself – it’s a great way to feel at home and stay informed about the local area.

6. Join or Start a Residents’ Group

Some buildings have WhatsApp groups or residents’ associations. If not, consider starting one to build community and share updates.

📦 Essentials for a New Home: What You’ll Need

Here’s a quick new house checklist of must-haves for your first few days:

Cleaning supplies
Toilet paper and toiletries
Kettle, mugs, tea/coffee
Bedding and towels
Chargers and extension lead
Lightbulbs and batteries
Basic tools (screwdriver, hammer, tape measure)

This moving essential checklist ensures you’re not caught out on day one.

👉 Download our Move-out Cleaning Checklist

Moving home checklist FAQs

Leave anything that was part of the tenancy agreement, such as fixtures, fittings, and appliances. Check with your landlord before removing anything fixed to the property. This helps avoid disputes and is part of a responsible moving out checklist.

Yes, tenants are generally expected to leave the property clean and tidy. Deep cleaning carpets, appliances, and bathrooms is often required. A clean home helps ensure you get your full deposit back and is part of a good move out checklist for tenants.

Some energy suppliers charge exit fees if you’re on a fixed-term tariff. However, many waive these if you're moving. Always check your contract or contact your supplier—this is a common item on a moving house utilities checklist.

Contact your local council to cancel or transfer your Council Tax account. You can usually do this online. Provide your move-out and move-in dates to avoid overpaying. This is a must-do on your house move address change list.

Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, check locks and windows, and locate the fuse box and water stopcock. These basic checks are essential for peace of mind and should be part of your moving into a new house checklist.

Inform your electricity, gas, water, broadband, and TV providers about your move. Provide final meter readings and your new address. This ensures accurate billing and smooth service transfer—an essential part of any moving home checklist.

Giving notice to your landlord is a legal requirement and ensures a smooth end to your tenancy. It allows both you and your landlord to prepare for the move—whether that’s arranging final inspections, returning your deposit, or finding a new tenant. Failing to give proper notice could mean you're still liable for rent, even after you've left the property.

City Status

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Birmingham

Soho Wharf

Creating a new neighbourhood

Size: 45 - 1193 sqm
Room: 1-3
Units: 752
Rental start: Ongoing
Available: Ongoing

Kingmaker House – Contemporary Living in Barnet

Contemporary Living in Barnet

Units:
Available:

Ewing House – Modern Living in Brentwood

Modern Living in Brentwood

Room: 1-2
Units: 60
Available:

✅ Quick UK Moving Checklist

Task	Description
Plan your move	Start early, pack smart, and label boxes by room.
Update your address	Notify HMRC, DVLA, banks, employer, and redirect mail.
Register for council tax	Contact your new local council to register.
Set up utilities	Take meter readings and choose your energy supplier.
Arrange broadband & TV	Book installation with your chosen provider.
Get contents insurance	Protect your belongings from theft or damage.
Apply for parking permit	Avoid fines in controlled parking zones.
Check housing support	Apply for Universal Credit or Housing Benefit if eligible.
Complete inventory	Report any damage and take photos as evidence.
Set up rent payments	Use direct debit or standing order to avoid missed payments.
Meet your neighbours	Build a sense of community in your new home.

🏘️ Find a Flat to Rent

Looking for your next home? Explore available rental flats in popular UK cities:

Moving Home Checklist for Renters