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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.

Just sold or bought with Buri?

Ask your agent for our concierge list of trusted removalists, cleaners, sparkies and locksmiths.

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