Day 1–2: the essentials
Get the beds set up and made, unpack the kitchen basics (kettle, mugs, plates, cutlery, pans), and make sure the bathroom is functional with towels, toilet roll, and soap. Test that everything works — heating, hot water, cooker, lights, and locks. If anything isn't working, contact your landlord, estate agent, or arrange a repair.
Day 2–3: key admin tasks
Submit meter readings to your energy suppliers. Update your address with your bank, employer, DVLA, and GP. Set up mail redirection if you haven't already. Register for council tax at your new address — your local council should contact you, but don't wait for them. Register on the electoral roll at your new address.
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Work through one room at a time rather than opening random boxes. Start with the rooms you use most — kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, living room. Break down boxes as you go and bundle cardboard for recycling. Don't feel pressured to finish everything in a week — some boxes can wait.
Day 5–7: settling in
Explore your new area: find the nearest supermarket, pharmacy, post office, and GP surgery. Introduce yourself to the neighbours if it feels natural. Test your broadband and set up your Wi-Fi properly. Consider a deep clean of the house now that the boxes are mostly unpacked — it's much easier when rooms are clear. Use our moving house checklist to make sure you haven't missed anything.