Completion Day Checklist

Written by Nicola Ryan

25th Apr 2023 (Last updated on 16th Feb 2024) 5 minute read

1. Pay Remaining Balance

You’ll need to make sure all remaining balances are fully paid before completion day. These payments will relate to the home-buying process as well as your current property.

Sale transaction payments include solicitor fees and the remaining purchase funds. Other fees that need to be accounted for include land registry and Stamp Duty Land Tax. These will be transferred via the CHAPS banking system.

Those buying with a mortgage will need to contact their mortgage provider. They will then ensure that the mortgage funds are ready to be transferred to the seller.

Once the seller’s side has received the necessary funds, the transaction will be deemed complete. The buyer’s solicitor will communicate with the mortgage lenders to prevent any completion day problems.

If you previously lived in a rental property, you will need to make sure you have paid any outstanding rent and serve your notice period.

Those purchasing a leasehold property may have to pay initial ground rent and service charges to the freeholder.

House sellers will need to pay their estate agent’s fees prior to completion.

Use our Stamp Duty Calculator to find out how much you owe.

2. Contents Insurance

You’ll need to arrange your contents and home insurance to proceed from the completion date. This ensures your belongings are covered, especially if you are moving your goods in gradually.

You should already have buildings insurance paid on the exchange of contracts. However, it’s best to make sure on the day of completion to ensure that your property is protected. Most mortgage companies require that the buyer has insured the building in order to complete.

3. Remain Contactable

Your estate agent and solicitor may want to contact you with any last-minute changes. Therefore, try to make sure that you are reachable by phone to prevent any delays. This includes issues with mortgage completion statements and delays in transferring purchase monies.

Most completion days take place on a Friday, according to TwentyCi’s Property and Homemover Report. Therefore, delays can mean that completion is pushed to the following week. Having your phone to hand can minimise the risk of this happening.

4. Pick Up Keys

The buyer will have to wait for the estate agent to call before collecting the keys. When you receive the call and visit the estate agent’s office, they will give you all keys to the property. These include the house key, garage key, and window keys. Once you have the keys, you can move into the property.

5. Talk to a Removal Company

You can begin to make arrangements with your removal company as you can schedule your moving day. Use our removal comparison form to find a removal company operating in your area and save money on your removal costs.

All our removal partners are covered by Goods in Transit and Public Liability insurance. This means you can have peace of mind whilst your belongings are being moved to your new property.

6. Check Any Remaining Items

The only goods that should be left in your existing property are any that have been listed in the Fittings & Contents form. If you are unsure what is included, you should contact your solicitor to prevent any issues after you have moved out.

When you move into your new property, the previous owner should have moved all of their belongings. The only goods that should be present in the property are any that have been previously agreed upon.

7. Take Meter Readings

You’ll need to take your final meter readings before you move out of your old property. You’ll also have to take meter readings when you move into your new property. These meter readings should then be sent to your new supplier.

Failure to submit meter readings could result in you being charged more than you should be. Providing your supplier with accurate meter readings means that you will be paying for what you actually use.

Read more about Changing Gas and Electric When Moving House

8. Update Address

Lastly, you will need to update your address and arrange mail redirection via Royal Mail. This includes informing the DVLA, your bank, and the local council of your completion. You will also need to tell your utility suppliers, especially if you are staying with your current provider.

You can also arrange for your broadband provider to visit your property to install your internet connection.

If you fail to update your address, you may see negative impacts on various taxes such as National Insurance and income tax. Not having your new address on the proof of identification is an offence that carries a financial and legal penalty. This includes your driving licence.

You should also change your old address on any online shopping platforms you may use such as Amazon.

Read more about Changing Broadband When Moving House

Finding a Conveyancer

Compare My Move can connect you with up to 6 licensed conveyancers who operate in your area and can assist you with your completion day.

You should always make sure that your conveyancer is regulated by a respected body. This includes the SRA (Solicitors Regulation Authority) and CLC (Council for Licensed Conveyancers).

Fill out the conveyancing comparison form and you can compare quotes and save money on your conveyancing fees.