Moving House Checklist: What to Do and When (Perth Edition)

A smooth move starts about six weeks out. Book removalists early, arrange utilities for both homes, redirect your mail, update your address with government agencies and your bank, and plan settlement day or the end of your lease in detail. This checklist sets out what to do and when.

What should you do six weeks before moving?

• confirm your settlement or lease start date
• get quotes and book removalists, or book a truck and helpers
• start decluttering: sell, donate or discard what you will not take
• check your contents insurance covers the move, and arrange cover for the new home
• if you rent, check the notice your lease requires

What should you do four weeks before moving?

• arrange electricity, gas and internet connection at the new home
• arrange disconnection or final readings at the old home
• book mail redirection with Australia Post
• start packing rooms you use least
• arrange school changes and medical record transfers if needed

Who do you need to tell about a change of address?

• your bank, superannuation fund and insurers
• the ATO, Medicare and Centrelink if relevant
• the Department of Transport, for your driver’s licence and vehicle registration
• the Australian Electoral Commission
• your employer, doctor, dentist and vet
• subscriptions, online shopping accounts and memberships

What should you do in the final week?

• confirm removalist times and access, including lifts and parking
• pack an essentials box: documents, chargers, medication, toiletries, kettle, snacks and bedding
• defrost the fridge and freezer
• clean as you go; tenants may also need to arrange a final clean for the bond
• organise keys, remotes and manuals to hand over

What happens on settlement or moving day?

Buyers usually do a pre-settlement inspection shortly before settlement; see our pre-settlement inspection checklist. Keys are released once settlement is confirmed, which can be later in the day, so plan the removalist booking around it. Sellers should leave the home clean, with all included items, keys and remotes.

What should you do in the first week in your new home?

• check smoke alarms, the safety switch (RCD) and the hot water system
• change or re-key the locks and reset garage remotes
• find the water, gas and electricity shut-offs
• check that all appliances and fixtures included in the sale work
• meet the neighbours and find your bin collection days

How do you make moving with children or pets easier?

Keep routines as normal as possible, pack a familiar box for children, and arrange care for young children and pets on moving day. For pets, update microchip details and registration with your new council.

How do you keep moving costs down?

Get at least two or three removalist quotes, declutter before you pack, and move outside peak times if you can. Book early in busy periods such as school holidays and the end of the financial year.

Buying or selling first? See our guides to the WA settlement process and downsizing in Perth.

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance should I book removalists?

Around six weeks ahead, and earlier for busy periods such as school holidays and the end of the financial year.

When should I set up utilities at my new home?

About four weeks before you move, so electricity, gas and internet are connected on day one.

Who do I notify when I move house?

Your bank, insurers, super fund, the ATO, Medicare, the Department of Transport, the electoral roll, your employer and service providers.

When do I get the keys after settlement?

Once settlement is confirmed, which can be later in the day. Plan your removalist booking around it.