Moving into a first apartment can feel daunting because several different jobs—paperwork, utilities, cleaning, packing and shopping—arrive at once. Arianna created a checklist when she was preparing to move and continued using it for later moves. This streamlined version separates what you need on day one from what can wait, so you do not fill a new home with expensive “essentials” before understanding the space.
Before you sign or collect the keys
- Confirm the total move-in cost, rent date, deposit arrangements and tenancy length.
- Read the agreement and inventory; ask about anything unclear before signing.
- Check what furniture and appliances are included.
- Measure entrances and key spaces before ordering large furniture.
- Arrange transport, helpers, time off and any required parking.
- Set aside documents, medication, chargers and first-night items so they do not disappear into boxes.
If you are still searching, use Arianna’s guide to finding a flat to rent in London.
On move-in day
- Photograph every room, appliance, meter and existing mark before unpacking.
- Compare the condition with the inventory and report discrepancies in writing.
- Locate the stopcock, fuse box or consumer unit, smoke alarms and exits.
- Record meter readings where relevant.
- Test locks, lights, heating, hot water and supplied appliances.
- Keep keys, tenancy documents and emergency contacts together.
Set up the household
- Electricity, gas and water, depending on what the property uses and what rent includes
- Broadband, allowing for installation lead times
- Council tax or student-status evidence where applicable
- Contents insurance if appropriate
- Address changes for your bank, employer, university, GP, driving records and deliveries
- A simple system for shared bills and receipts
Do not assume the previous resident’s provider or tariff is best. Take readings first, find out who currently supplies the property, then compare your eligible options.
First-night essentials
- Bedding, towel, toiletries and toilet paper
- Medication and a basic first-aid kit
- Phone charger, extension lead and a lamp if needed
- Water, a meal or simple cooking supplies
- One mug, glass, plate, bowl and set of cutlery per person
- Washing-up liquid, sponge, bin bags and multipurpose cleaner
- Weather-appropriate clothing for the next day
Kitchen basics for the first week
Start with one saucepan, one frying pan, a baking tray, a sharp knife, chopping board, wooden spoon or spatula, tin opener, colander, food-storage containers and enough crockery for the household. Add equipment only when a repeated task proves you need it. Check shared accommodation before buying duplicates.
Bathroom, bedroom and cleaning basics
- Bathroom: bath mat, toilet brush, hand soap, cleaning cloths and a plunger if suitable for the plumbing
- Bedroom: mattress protector, bedding, hangers and a laundry basket
- Cleaning: vacuum or broom, mop if the floors need one, bucket, microfibre cloths, gloves and products suitable for the actual surfaces
- Safety: torch, spare batteries where required and any landlord-approved window or door measures
Never mix cleaning chemicals. Ventilate, follow the label and keep products away from children and pets.
Buy later, if the space needs it
Delay decorative storage, extra appliances, matching utensil sets, guest bedding, specialised cleaners and furniture that has not been measured. Live in the apartment for a few weeks first. Borrowing, buying second-hand and using what you already own can reduce both cost and waste.
For a more detailed household list, compare Arianna’s first-home essentials. When you eventually move out, the end-of-tenancy cleaning checklist will help you document the condition properly.
