

The ultimate checklist for first-time movers!
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Moving out for the first time can be an exciting but daunting task, with so many things to consider and organise. To help ensure a smooth transition into your new place, here is a comprehensive checklist to guide you through the process:
Before Moving Day:
1. Budgeting and financial planning
- Determine your budget for rent, utilities, council tax, groceries, and other living expenses.
- Make sure to set aside funds for security deposits, moving costs, and any unexpected expenses.
2. Finding a home
- Research your preferred residential areas and the flats/houses listed that are within your budget.
- Arrange viewings of potential properties with estate agents.
- When choosing a place, some things to consider are: location, safety, proximity to your school or workplace, amenities and transportation.
3. Securing your home
- Submit an offer for the property you like.
- Prepare necessary documents as part of the rental application (e.g. identity documents, proof of income, VISA status share code, references, etc.)
- Review your terms and conditions before signing the tenancy contract.
- Consider renter’s insurance to protect your belongings.
4. Utilities and services
- Set up your electricity, water, gas and internet through contacting utility providers.
- Arrange for personal mail to be redirected to your new address by contacting Royal Mail.
- If required, research and schedule installations for cable, internet and phone services.
5. Packing and organising
- Prepare packing materials such as cardboard boxes, tape, bubble wrap, scissors and markers.
- Declutter and donate or sell any items that you no longer use.
- Label all boxes with their contents and which room it belongs to.
6. Change of address
- Update your address with banks, insurance companies, your school or workplace, and subscriptions such as Amazon and HelloFresh, if you receive regular deliveries.
- Register with a new GP practice in your area.
7. Moving logistics
- Hire a professional moving company to make your move a hassle-free process.
- You may want to pick a company that also provides packing, removals, and storage services, depending on your needs. If you don’t want to unpack everything at once, or if you have a gap between your move out and the start of your next tenancy, looking for a company that offers short-term storage would be a good idea. Find one near you with our Storage Locator comparison tool.
- Coordinate and decide on a move-in date and time with your landlord.
On the Moving Day:
1. Final packing
- Pack an essentials kit with some food, water, important documents, toiletries, and any other items you may need to get you through the big day.
- Disassemble furniture, if necessary, and protect fragile items for transport.
2. Moving Process
- Provide directions to your friends or movers that are helping with your move.
- Do a final check of your old home and walk through every room and open all cabinets and drawers to check that you are not leaving anything behind.
- Check for any damages or issues in your old home and take photos wherever necessary before returning your keys to your landlord.
After Moving In:
1. Unpacking and settling in
- Before you start unpacking, check the inventory of your new property and take photos of any damage or faults, and let your landlord or property manager know.
- Unpack your essentials box first, to make sure you have everything you need for your first night at the new home!
- Prioritise which boxes to unpack first based on how soon you require the contents.
- Assemble your furniture and set up decorations to personalise your home.
2. Safety and security
- Test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.
- If you are moving into an apartment building or a PBSA, familiarise yourself with emergency exits and evacuation procedures.
- If necessary, change any locks or rekey your front door for extra security.
3. Setting up your finances
- Set up direct debits for your rent, utilities, council tax, and other recurring fees.
- Track your expenses and make alterations if necessary to your new living costs.
4. Enjoy the new home!
- Now that all the stressful work is done, relax and give yourself a pat on the back for your accomplishments!
- Host a housewarming by inviting your friends and family. Host a housewarming by inviting your friends and family.
- Explore and enjoy what your new neighbourhood has to offer- meet new people and make friends along the way!
Moving out for the first time can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. By following this checklist and staying organised, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on this new chapter of your life with confidence and ease.
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