Moving out FAQs

Selling a property comes with plenty of questions, especially when you’re approaching moving day. Whether you’re unsure about the little details or need clarity on what’s expected of you, this quick set of frequently asked questions should help you feel prepared and confident.

Do I have to clean the house before I leave?

Yes, you are expected to leave the property in a reasonably clean and tidy condition. This doesn’t mean a full professional deep clean, but it should be swept, vacuumed and wiped down, with any rubbish removed. The goal is to ensure the new owner can move in without needing to clean up after you.

If you’re unsure what’s expected, your solicitor estate agent can advise based on what’s written into the contract.

What happens if I leave something behind?

Anything that’s not specifically listed in the sale agreement should be removed before the handover. If you accidentally leave something, the new owner isn’t obliged to return it. If it’s a mistake and you realise quickly, you should contact your solicitor who may be able to reach out to the buyer’s solicitor on your behalf.

To avoid problems, double check lofts, cupboards, drawers, garden sheds and garages before handing over the keys.

Can I leave furniture or white goods?

Only if it was agreed in the missives. If you want to leave behind anything substantial, such as a fridge or wardrobe, this should be disclosed in advance and included in the offer. Otherwise, the buyer may be entitled to request removal at your expense.

Your solicitor estate agent can help clarify what was agreed and advise if you’re uncertain about any items.

What do I do with bins and recycling?

It’s good etiquette to leave the bins clean and ready for use, and ideally to leave a note explaining the local collection schedule. If you’ve already moved out before collection day, try to leave them as tidy and empty as possible.

You don’t need to leave specific instructions, but it’s a considerate gesture and helps the new owner settle in.

Should I take final meter readings?

Yes. On the day you move out, take final gas, electricity and water meter readings and photograph them for your records. Submit these to your utility providers straight away to make sure your final bills are accurate and that you’re not charged for usage after you’ve left.

How do I hand over the keys?

Your solicitor estate agent will give you clear instructions. Normally, you’ll return the keys to their office on the date of entry, once the property is empty. In some cases, you may leave a spare set inside the home, perhaps in a drawer or cupboard.

Do not hand keys directly to the buyer unless your solicitor has specifically arranged this.

When do I have to be out of the house?

You’ll need to vacate the property by the agreed date of entry, typically by midday or early afternoon. The exact timing depends on when the buyer’s solicitor confirms that funds have been received. Your own solicitor estate agent will keep you updated and let you know when the keys are ready to hand over.

It’s best to aim to be fully moved out first thing in the morning, to avoid any last-minute rush or delays.

What happens with my mail?

Set up a redirection with Royal Mail to ensure nothing important goes missing. It’s also a good time to notify banks, insurers, HMRC, your GP and any other relevant organisations of your change of address.

Redirecting your mail gives you a buffer period to update addresses at your own pace and reduces the risk of personal information going to your old home.

Do I need to leave appliance manuals or warranties?

It’s not a legal requirement, but it’s good practice. If you’ve agreed to leave behind white goods or other fixtures, it’s helpful to leave any manuals or warranties that go with them. Place them in a drawer or folder where the new owners can easily find them.

Can I move out before the date of entry?

Yes, you can. In fact, many sellers prefer to move out a day or two earlier so they can clean and prepare the property in a more relaxed way. Just make sure you continue to insure the property until the official handover, and keep it secure if it’s left unoccupied.

Let your solicitor estate agent know your plans, especially if there’s anything they should pass on to the buyer’s solicitor.

What if something goes wrong after the sale?

Once the missives are concluded and the date of entry has passed, the legal responsibility for the property moves to the buyer. If a problem arises and the buyer believes it was deliberately hidden or misrepresented, they may raise a claim through their solicitor.

This is rare, but it’s why it’s important to be honest about the condition of the home and to honour what’s in the contract.

Do I need to update my home insurance?

Yes. Your home insurance should cover the property until the date of entry. After that, you should cancel the policy or update it to cover your new address. If you’re moving into a new home immediately, make sure you have buildings and contents insurance in place from the day you take ownership.

Your solicitor estate agent may remind you of this, but it’s your responsibility to make the switch.