Completion day checklist

What does completion mean?

It’s one of those words we all use to refer to the end of a conveyancing transaction, but what does ‘completion’ actually mean?

On the day of completion, the buyer’s solicitor sends the balance of the purchase monies to the seller’s solicitor. Completion occurs the moment those funds are received, with ownership of the property transferring to the buyer. The transfer document, which will have been signed and witnessed in advance, is dated, and the estate agent authorised to release the keys to the buyer.

Completion day checklist

Because there is inevitably so much to think about both on and approaching completion day, preparing a conveyancing completion day checklist well in advance can prove very helpful. The list which follows is very far from exhaustive, but may nevertheless prove helpful.

Things to consider before completion day

• Removals company: As they charge a premium during busy times, can you be flexible with the day you complete? It could save you money. If they are packing for you, are you satisfied they appreciate the full nature and extent of your furniture and possessions?
• Flammable and dangerous liquids: It’s worth remembering that removals companies are unlikely to agree to move these, so you will need to dispose of or make other arrangements for them in advance.
• Trades and other services: If your removals company do not provide additional service such as plumbing in your washing machine and reassembling furniture, do you need to make specific arrangements for those?
• Cleaning: You might consider arranging to have your new house cleaned between the seller moving out and you moving in.
• Less accessible spaces: Do you need to clear out and pack items from spaces such as your loft, cellar, shed or garage?
• Utilities and Insurance: Notify utility companies of your upcoming move and ensure your buildings and contents insurance is switched to your new home with effect from the expected completion time.
• Local services: Cancel any local services and settle outstanding accounts. Typical examples are newspapers, milk, window cleaner and gardener.
• Children and pets: Arrange care for children and pets.
• Medication: If you are on regular medication, check you have sufficient to see you through the moving period.
• Perishables: Start to run down your perishable food items and frozen food. Ensure your fridge and freezer are defrosted and dry in time for moving day.
• Mail: Arrange a mail redirect with Royal Mail.
• Friends and family: Send change of address cards to friends and family.
• Keys: Gather together all keys for your property, including window locks and those held by family, friends and neighbours. If any are missing, it’s worth checking the deeper recesses of your odds and ends drawer!
• Overnight bag: Prepare an overnight bag and survival kit, including important documents and essential tools, to see you through the first 24 hours in your new home. Ensure these travel with you, not in the removal van!
• Contact numbers: Make a list of important telephone numbers for your new property. Good examples are out of hours GP, vet, pharmacy and taxi.

Completion Day

• Boxes: Ensure boxes are cross-referenced to rooms.
• Mobile phone: Is your phone fully charged? Is the charger in your overnight bag?
• Meter readings: Take meter readings for your old home for electricity, gas and water. A photograph is best.
• Inventory: One person should stay at your old property until your movers have finished packing to check the packing inventory, as a signature will be required for confirmation. At the other end, ensure somebody can meet your movers at your new home to provide them with instructions on what should go where. Account for each item on your inventory and question any items which are missing or damaged. Only sign the inventory once you are completely satisfied.
• Read new meters: Take meter readings for all utilities at your new home. Again, a photo is best.
• Unpacking: Consider leaving unpacking until tomorrow. You will be exhausted so why not just order a takeaway, relax and have an early night?