You can reduce moving day stress by preparing beforehand.
Some removal services would normally offer packing services but these will be limited for now. However, boxes and packing equipment can still be supplied.
A ‘deep clean’ is recommended when moving in and out of a property, so it’s a good idea to agree with your property lawyer whether you need to do a deep clean on your own home when it is empty, and also whether you need to do this in your new home before you move in.
Vulnerable people or those shielding
If you are in this category, please seek medical advice on whether your move should take place as during this period the government advice is “staying at home and avoiding unnecessary contacts over this period, if at all possible.”
The also suggest that “All parties involved in home buying and selling should prioritise agreeing amicable arrangements to change move dates for individuals in this group, or where someone in a chain is in this group.”
If you need to send money to your property lawyer check whether your bank account has any limit on the amount you can send via your online banking. If you arrange the payments in advance you can avoid a visit to your bank. Be alert to fraudsters – they look for signs you might be sending money so avoid posting on social media that you are moving and be especially suspicious if you receive communication that suggests your property lawyer has changed their bank details.
Self-pack miscellaneous and non-breakable items wherever possible (ask your removal company what boxes and other materials they will supply and to itemise any associated costs).
Where possible, please clean your belongings, with standard domestic cleaning products before they are handled by others, including removal firms.
Packing by the remover is currently limited to china, glass and breakable items.
Dismantle for packing, and then re-assemble at the destination, furniture items in your new home wherever possible.
Co-ordinate your move with anyone living in the property so they will have time to move out before you or your removers arrive at the property. Check if there is an agreed time for the property to become vacant on the day of the move, for example 2pm.
If it is possible, allow 72 hours between a householder moving out and a new one moving in. This may be more likely to be possible when renting.
Try to have everything packed and ready the night before your move.
On moving day, before the removers arrive:
Where possible, if you haven’t already, please clean your belongings, with standard domestic cleaning products before they are handled by others, including removal firms.
Ideally leave the property while the removers are working, either by staying outside, or keeping yourself to one room. Always observe the two metre social distancing measures. If you have access to disposable gloves, sanitising gels and possibly masks, please use them.
Clean down hard surfaces with warm soapy water, then disinfect these surfaces with household disinfectant.
Wipe down door handles/handrails/lift controls and other ‘touch points’ with household disinfectant (check first that it won’t damage the surfaces).
Clean and wash toilet facilities as above.
Keep windows open to allow ventilation.
Have one designated bathroom, if possible, just for the crew to use. Place soap and hand-sanitiser within easy reach. Clean and wash the area as noted above.
Open a loft hatch or set up a loft ladder.
Ensure pets and children are not in the property or keep them in the same room with you.
Wash your hands regularly, use paper towels to dry them and/or your own hand sanitiser.
Remember - any keys handed over need to be sanitised by using hand sanitisers, or via disinfectant wipes.
Note that it will not be possible for crew members to keep a 2m distance during your move from each other, but you should keep a 2m social distance from them.
