What to do when moving home – hints & tips

You’ve found your new home, secured your mortgage, and exchanged contracts—exciting times! But with so much going on, it’s easy to overlook the smaller details. From digital admin to smart home setups, moving house today involves more than just boxes and bubble wrap.

Here’s an updated checklist to help make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.

1. Confirm your moving date early

Start by getting your moving date officially confirmed by your solicitor or conveyancer and the seller.

If you’re able to overlap moving out and moving in—even by a day or two—use this time wisely. Many homeowners now prioritise:

• Deep cleaning (or booking a professional cleaning service)
• Painting and decorating
• Setting up Wi-Fi and smart devices in advance

Also, check your position in the chain and build in flexibility. Delays are still common, so having a contingency plan (like temporary storage or accommodation) is a smart move.

2. Give notice to your landlord (if renting)

If you’re currently renting, notify your landlord as soon as your move date is confirmed.

With rising rental costs, many people now try to:

• Align their move with the end of their tenancy
• Avoid overlapping rent and mortgage payments

If overlap is unavoidable, budget for it early to avoid surprises.

3. Update utilities and subscriptions

Today, it’s not just about gas and electricity. Make a full list of everything tied to your address:

• Energy providers (consider switching for better tariffs)
• Water
• Broadband and mobile
• Streaming services (some are location-sensitive)
• Smart home services (security, heating apps, etc.)

Many providers now allow online or app-based moves, making this process quicker than ever.

4. Plan for internet downtime (or avoid it entirely)

Reliable internet is now essential—whether for work, entertainment, or smart home devices.

To stay connected:

• Book your broadband installation as early as possible
• Ask your provider about “home move” priority services
• Use mobile hotspots or unlimited data plans as backup

Some providers even offer next-day activation—worth checking in advance.

5. Take photos of meter readings

Before leaving your old property:

• Take clear photos of gas, electricity, and water meters
• Do the same when you arrive at your new home

This avoids billing disputes and gives you a clean starting point.

6. Compare removal options (and book early)

Demand for removal services has increased, especially on weekends and month-end dates.

Options to consider:

• Full-service removals (packing + transport)
• “Man with a van” services
• DIY van hire

Modern tip:
Use comparison sites and check recent reviews. Many people now also choose eco-friendly removal companies or reusable packing materials.

Always keep valuables, important documents, and tech (laptops, tablets) with you.

7. Declutter before you pack

Minimalism and sustainability are big trends, moving is the perfect time to declutter.

Sort items into:

• Keep
• Donate (charity shops or apps like OLIO)
• Sell (marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace or Vinted)
• Recycle

Less clutter = lower moving costs and an easier unpack.

8. Get to know your new home

Before moving in, ask for (or create) a “home information pack” including:

• Stopcock location
• Fuse box and smart meter
• Heating system instructions
• Appliance manuals (often digital now)
• Wi-Fi setup details
• Bin collection days

If you’re selling, leaving this behind is a great modern courtesy.

9. Pack smart (not just efficiently)

Organisation is still key—but now it’s smarter:

• Label boxes clearly by room
• Use colour-coding or QR code inventory apps
• Keep a digital list of what’s in each box
• Pack a separate “open first” box

Reusable crates and eco packing materials are increasingly popular alternatives to cardboard.

10. Clear outstanding bills and update addresses

Avoid future headaches by settling:

• Final utility bills
• Council tax
• Any subscriptions tied to your address

Then update your address across:

• Banking apps
• Online shopping accounts
• Delivery services

Pro tip: Save your new address in autofill to avoid accidental deliveries to your old home.

11. Redirect post and go paperless

Set up mail redirection (ideally at least a week in advance).

Even better—reduce future hassle by switching to paperless billing wherever possible.

Notify:

• Employer
• Banks and insurers
• DVLA
• NHS (GP and dentist)
• Electoral roll

A quick group message or social post can update friends and family instantly.

12. Pack a “first night” essentials kit

After a long moving day, you’ll want everything within reach.

Include:

• Tea/coffee essentials (or takeaway apps ready!)
• Chargers and extension leads
• Toiletries and loo roll
• Cleaning supplies
• Bedding and pyjamas
• Snacks and water
• Basic toolkit

Bonus modern essential: Wi-Fi router and passwords!

13. Moving Day: Stay flexible

The big day is here—expect things to be busy and not always go perfectly.

Top priorities:

• Supervise unloading
• Do a quick clean before unpacking
• Check utilities and heating
• Test Wi-Fi and mobile signal
• Take photos of property condition

Unpack room by room – starting with the kitchen and bedroom.

Finally, once the essentials are done…
Order food, relax, and enjoy your new home.

Finally…

Moving home in 2026 is as much about digital organisation as physical packing. Planning ahead, using modern tools, and staying flexible can make all the difference.

Good luck with your move!

If you’re you’re just browsing the market at the moment, take a look at our current listings here.