The short answer
Before moving day, confirm funds and completion arrangements with your conveyancer. On the day, wait for legal completion before expecting the keys. Have essentials, contact details and a plan for delays ready.
A completion date does not guarantee a particular key-collection time.Before the day
Check your completion statement and when the legal firm needs cleared funds. Independently verify payment details before transferring a large amount. Confirm your buildings insurance arrangements and responsibilities.
Tell removers the agreed plan and check their waiting and cancellation terms. Arrange access, parking and any lift booking where needed. Keep medication, identification, chargers, documents and basic overnight items outside the packed boxes.
When you are leaving
Meet the requirements of your contract about the property's condition and contents. Remove the items you agreed to take and leave those included in the sale.
Take dated meter readings and, where appropriate, photographs. Prepare keys, fobs and useful operating information. Check cupboards, loft areas and outbuildings so you do not leave important belongings behind.
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When you are waiting for keys
Stay reachable and ask your conveyancer or agent for confirmation of completion. Funds can take time to move through a chain; arriving early does not speed up the legal process.
If a significant delay or problem arises, speak to the conveyancer about the contractual position and to the removers about practical options. Avoid agreeing an informal early move-in without proper advice and agreement.
After access is confirmed
Record readings at the new home and check that the handover broadly matches what was agreed. If something material is wrong, document it and contact your conveyancer promptly.
Set up utilities, update relevant addresses and consider security arrangements. Keep post-completion correspondence from your firm: tax and registration work can continue after the physical move is finished.
Your next steps
- Confirm funds and independently verify bank details.
- Keep essentials and key contacts accessible.
- Wait for completion confirmation before collecting keys.
- Record meters and retain completion documents.
A little more clarity
Will I definitely get the keys at lunchtime?
No particular time is guaranteed simply by agreeing the date. Ask about arrangements and allow for the time needed for completion funds to arrive.
Further reading
- GOV.UK: How to buy a home (opens in a new tab)
- GOV.UK: How to sell a home (opens in a new tab)
- HM Land Registry: Protect property from fraud (opens in a new tab)
General information for England and Wales, not advice on your individual transaction. Millennium Legal is a referral and case management service, not a firm of solicitors. Your appointed firm provides legal advice. Check current official guidance and your own terms.
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