Your Moving-In Checklist: The First 48 Hours

The first hour

The moment you step through the door, do a quick walk-through. Check that everything the seller agreed to leave is still there — curtains, light fittings, appliances — and note anything missing for your solicitor.

Day one priorities

• Change the locks — you don't know who has a spare key. Book a locksmith or change the barrels yourself.
• Take meter readings — gas, electricity and water. Send them to your suppliers immediately.
• Locate the stopcock and fuse box — find them now, not during an emergency.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms — replace batteries if needed.

The first 48 hours

Utilities and services

• Notify your broadband, gas, electricity and water providers of your move-in date.
• Set up council tax — you're liable from the day you complete, even if it takes weeks to register.
• Redirect your post via Royal Mail.

Security

• Change the locks (if not done on day one).
• Check window locks and any alarm system codes.
• Consider a video doorbell or smart locks.

The jobs you'll thank yourself for

• Deep clean before you unpack — it's far easier in an empty house.
• Take photos of every room before furniture goes in, for insurance and future reference.
• Keep a "moving day box" with essentials: kettle, tea, phone chargers, toiletries, a toolkit.

A little planning in the first 48 hours saves weeks of chasing later. Treat it like a project, not a celebration — you can celebrate once the boxes are unpacked.