I get it, moving into your first flat can be DAUNTING. Don’t panic—I got you! I’ve compiled a first apartment checklist that has everything you need to do and buy for your first flat. In fact, I’m moving soon myself, and STILL use this same checklist.
Affiliate disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I'll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read my full disclosure here.
What do you need to do first? Well, actually get a flat! Check out my full guide to finding a flat to rent in London for more details, but I’ll recap the basics here.
There are a few steps you need to take:
Once you’ve secured your flat, you’ll need to actually get organised for the move. This includes:
Now, your flat will have been professionally cleaned, but I always like to clean it myself when I move in as well while it’s still empty.
I’ve got a flat cleaning checklist that is PERFECT for this.
I’d also recommend getting some heavy-duty cleaning products for the job. Here's my list of cleaning essentials for your apartment:
One of the first things you’ll need to do is set up your bills and utilities. In particular, if you’re in the UK, you’ll need to set up your internet installation WELL in advance as it can take up to a month for them to book you in!
Once you move, you’ll also need to set up:
You’ll also need to add your new address to, well, just about everything! This may include:
Now, on to the fun part! Shopping!
Most places in London come furnished (thank goodness!), but there’s still quite a few things you’ll need to buy for your new flat.
Click here to check out a list with all of my recommendations for what to buy for your first rental, including the most affordable options I could find for each.
Make sure, for your first day, in addition to the cleaning supplies above, you at least have the following:
And there you have it, my best first apartment checklist, compiled from over 10 years of experience of living on my own! Let me know in the comments below if you found it useful or if you have any other tips to share for moving into your first flat!