The complete moving house checklist for the UK
Week-by-week from 8 weeks before your move to your first week in the new home. Each task links to a step-by-step guide with direct links to the services you need.
This is the planning phase. Get the big decisions sorted early so everything else falls into place. Most of these tasks take time, so start now.
- Instruct a conveyancing solicitorStep-by-step guide
- Research and compare removal companies — get at least two quotesStep-by-step guide
- Start decluttering room by room — sell, donate, or recycle what you don't needStep-by-step guide
- Compare broadband providers at your new addressStep-by-step guide
- Review your home insurance and get quotes for the new propertyStep-by-step guide
- If renting, give notice to your landlord or letting agent
- If you have pets, start planning their moveStep-by-step guide
- If your children need to change schools, start the transfer processStep-by-step guide
Time to handle the admin. Most of these are quick online tasks — set aside an evening and knock them out.
- Set up mail redirection with Royal MailStep-by-step guide
- Update your address with your bankStep-by-step guide
- Notify your energy supplier or switch to a new providerStep-by-step guide
- Notify your water companyStep-by-step guide
- Arrange home insurance for your new propertyStep-by-step guide
- Update your car insurance with your new addressStep-by-step guide
- Register with a new GP near your new addressStep-by-step guide
- If self-employed, notify HMRC of your address changeStep-by-step guide
The finish line is in sight. Focus on utilities, packing, and making sure nothing slips through the cracks.
- Confirm your broadband installation date at the new propertyStep-by-step guide
- Start packing non-essential rooms — label every box by roomStep-by-step guide
- Update your council tax — tell your current and new councilStep-by-step guide
- Arrange parking permits or bay suspensions for the removal van
- Start running down the contents of your fridge and freezer
Nearly there. This week is about tying up loose ends and being ready for the day itself.
- Pack an essentials box — kettle, mugs, phone charger, toiletries, toilet roll, snacksStep-by-step guide
- Confirm your removal company time and any special requirements
- Defrost the freezer and clean behind appliances
- Back up any important files and documents
- Disassemble furniture that won't fit through doorways
The big day. Take it one step at a time — you've done the prep, now just follow the plan.
- Take final gas, electricity, and water meter readings — photograph themStep-by-step guide
- Do a final sweep of every room, cupboard, loft, and garden shed
- Hand over all keys, fobs, and alarm codes to the buyer or agent
- Take meter readings at your new property on arrivalStep-by-step guide
- Check that everything works — heating, hot water, locks, windows
You're in. These tasks can be spread over the first couple of weeks — no need to rush them all at once.
- Register on the electoral roll at your new addressStep-by-step guide
- Update your driving licence address with the DVLA — free onlineStep-by-step guide
- Update your V5C vehicle registrationStep-by-step guide
- Register with a GP, dentist, and optician near your new homeStep-by-step guide
- Update your address with any remaining subscriptions and accountsStep-by-step guide
- Meet your neighbours and get to know the area
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Get your free moving planCommon questions about moving house
How far in advance should I start preparing to move house?
Ideally 8–10 weeks before your move date. This gives you time to compare removal companies, set up mail redirection, and handle the legal and financial admin without rushing.
What is the most important thing to do when moving house?
Set up mail redirection with Royal Mail. It catches anything you forget to update and gives you a safety net for 3–12 months while you work through your address changes.
Do I need to tell the council I'm moving?
Yes. You need to tell both your current council (to stop paying council tax there) and your new council (to register and start paying at the new address). You can do this online on most council websites.
What should I pack in my essentials box?
Kettle, mugs, tea/coffee, phone charger, toiletries, toilet roll, a change of clothes, basic cleaning supplies, snacks, and any medication you need. Keep it with you — don't put it on the removal van.
How long does it take to update all my addresses?
Most address changes can be done online in a few minutes each. Set aside one evening about 4 weeks before your move and you can get through the bulk of it in an hour or two.
Is there a penalty for not updating my driving licence address?
Yes — you can be fined up to £1,000 for not updating your driving licence address with the DVLA. The good news is it's free and takes about 5 minutes online.
Step-by-step guides for every task
Each guide walks you through one specific task — with direct links to the official services you need.
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