In short
On completion day the buyer's money moves through the chain, and your conveyancer tells the agent to release the keys once your sale funds arrive. That often happens around lunchtime but can be later. Plan to be fully moved out before then, take meter readings, leave everything you agreed to leave, and keep your phone on.
Last updated . Reviewed by FindYourAgent editorial.
Print or save as PDF
No email required, no sign-up. Just hit print.
The week before
Most completion-day stress is a removals problem.
- Confirm the removals booking and the time they will arrive.
- Tell energy, water, broadband and council tax suppliers your moving date.
- Set up Royal Mail redirection.
- Return any items on the TA10 that you agreed to leave but have packed by mistake.
- Defrost and clean the freezer if it is staying.
On the day
Be packed and out before the keys are due to be released.
- Take photos of the meter readings and send them to suppliers.
- Leave all keys — including windows, garage and shed — with the agent or as agreed.
- Leave manuals, alarm codes and boiler information in a kitchen drawer.
- Check every room, the loft and the garden for forgotten items.
- Lock up and keep your phone on until your conveyancer confirms completion.
After completion
Your conveyancer finishes the legal work.
- Check you have received the completion statement and the money due to you.
- Cancel buildings insurance from the completion date (not before).
- Keep the sale paperwork. You may need it for tax records.
Our take
Book removals for the day before completion if you possibly can. Being out a night early costs a hotel room; being late on completion day can hold up every family in the chain.
Free agent matching
See what your home could be worth
Get a free indicative valuation in about 60 seconds. See your estimate before deciding whether you want introductions to local agents.
Free for sellers. We pass your details to our partner GetAgent (Move with Us Ltd), who introduce you to up to 3 estate agents operating in your postcode area. Agents pay GetAgent a referral fee only on a successful sale — you never pay more than normal commission. How we make money.