Moving to London: A Complete Checklist for Renters
So, you’re moving to London? Exciting times! 🎉 London is a city bursting with opportunities, endless coffee shops, late-night eats, and dreamy flats ☕🌮 But let’s be honest—getting settled in a new place can feel like a lot. 😅 Don’t worry, though; we’ve got you covered with the ultimate checklist to keep things smooth, stress-free, and maybe even a little fun 🏙️✨
1. Before You Move
Let’s get real—prepping for a move is half the battle. Here's what you’ll need to do before the big day:
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Sort Out Your Rental Details
- Double-check your tenancy agreement
- Confirm the move-in date and key collection (because you do not want to get there and be stuck outside with all your boxes 🔑📦)
- Ask about utility setup—some landlords include it, some don’t
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Pack Like a Pro
- Essentials Bag: Think chargers, toiletries🧴, an outfit or two 👗, snacks 🍫 (because unpacking hungry = chaos)
- Label Boxes: Trust us, future you will thank you when you’re looking for your kettle on moving in day! ☕ 🔎
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Book the Big Stuff
- Moving van? Check ✅🚚
- Handy friends with cars? Bribe them with pizza 🍕
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Update Your Info Let your bank, work, and anyone else important know your new address 🏦🏠
2. When You Arrive
You’ve made it! 🙌 Now let’s turn your flat into a home and get your new life started.
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Utilities & Internet
- Set up your utilities (electricity ⚡, gas 🔥, water 💧) if it’s not already done
- Get your Wi-Fi sorted ASAP—Netflix and video calls wait for no one 🍿📱
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Council Tax This is a big one! Register with the council for your tax band. It’s boring but necessary 🏛️
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GP Registration Find your nearest GP and register. Health comes first, gal 🏥🩺
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Do a Walkthrough Check for any damage, weird smells, or broken appliances, take photos and report it immediately. Protect that deposit! 🔧💰
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Unpack Strategically Start with your bedroom—getting your bed set up first makes it feel like home right away 🛏️ 💤
3. The First Few Days
Now it’s time to get out there and soak in your new neighbourhood vibes! 🌆
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Explore the Area
- Find your local coffee shop (where you’ll probably become a regular) ☕
- Scope out nearby grocery stores , gyms , and parks 🛒🏋️♀️🌳
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Meet the Neighbours A quick “hello” 👋 in the hallway can lead to lifesaving moments later, like when you lock yourself out 🚪🔑
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Stock Up on Essentials
- Toilet paper, hand soap, cleaning supplies —don’t forget the boring-but-important stuff 🧻🧽
- Grocery staples like fruit, veg, cheese, milk, pasta, and snacks are a must 🧀🥖🍎
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Decorate Your Space
- Fairy lights? Yes. ✨
- Plants? Yes. 🌿
- Cute rugs? **Yes, yes, and yes. ** The faster you personalize, the faster it feels like home 💕🫶
4. What to Buy for Your Flat
Moving to London can be pricey 💸, so let’s focus on what you really need:
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Kitchen Basics
- A kettle, pans, utensils, plates, and mugs 🍳🍴
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Cleaning Supplies
- Multi-purpose spray, sponges, bin bags —don’t wait until the mess piles up 🧽🗑️
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Cozy Must-Haves
- Throw blankets, pillows, and a diffuser to keep it smelling gorgeous🫶🌸
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Storage Solutions
- Think baskets, over-the-door hooks (sticky ones that won't damage the paint), and under-bed boxes to hide some of the mesa 🛏️🧺🚪
5. The London Life: Get Ready to Shine
London can be a lot, it can feel overwhelming, a bit lonely and you are bound to feel a bit out of sorts but it can also be amazing ✨ Between the endless brunch spots, cute markets, and late-night Ubers across the city, you’ll find your rhythm 🥑🛍️🚖💃
At HOMEE, we’re here to take the stress out of finding the perfect home and housemates, so you can focus on living your best life 🌟 Let’s make this move the start of something incredible Because you’re not just moving into a new flat; you’re moving into your life in London. 🏡✨