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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