buying
The Moving House Checklist
Everything, in order — a practical moving checklist for South Australian homes.
6 min readBy Buri Son
Moving day either runs like clockwork or unravels by 10am. This checklist — used by Buri clients — keeps everything on rails from six weeks out to your first coffee in the new place.
6 weeks out
- Book removalists (get 3 quotes; premium companies book out in peak season).
- Start decluttering — one room per weekend.
- Sort documents, photos, warranties into keep/scan/shred piles.
- If renting: give notice per your agreement.
4 weeks out
- Order packing boxes, tape, bubble wrap, labels.
- Book cleaners for both old and new places.
- Arrange mail redirection with Australia Post.
- Notify your children's school, GP, dentist.
2 weeks out
- Update address: bank, super, Medicare, driver's licence, electoral roll, insurance, employer.
- Book electricity, gas, internet, water at the new property (internet installs take 2–3 weeks).
- Cancel/transfer services at the current property (effective moving day).
- Confirm final settlement or lease dates with all parties.
1 week out
- Pack a "first night" box: linen, toiletries, phone chargers, kettle, mugs, a change of clothes.
- Photograph valuable items for insurance.
- Empty and defrost the fridge/freezer 48 hours before.
- Confirm removalist arrival time and access at both properties.
Moving day
- Read every meter (electricity, gas, water) — photograph and email your utility.
- Do a final walkthrough of the old property.
- Hand over/receive keys at the agreed time.
- Direct removalists room-by-room using labelled boxes.
First week in your new home
- Test smoke alarms; change batteries.
- Locate stopcock, gas meter, main switch, hot water isolator.
- Change locks or re-key (do this on day one).
- Meet your neighbours — it's easier now than in three months.
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