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A new build home offers a fresh start: modern design, energy efficiency and no previous owner’s wear and tear. But moving into a new build comes with its own checks and surprises, from snagging issues to unfinished roads and parking. These tips for moving into a new build home will help you prepare for completion, plan moving day and settle in smoothly.

The tips below are listed in no particular order. Adapt them to your developer, your development and your moving date.

Before You Start

Ask your developer for the expected completion date, handover arrangements and any site rules for moving day. Construction work may still be going on around you, so check access for large vehicles.

Top 10 Tips for Moving Into a New Build Home

1. Expect Completion Dates to Move

New build completion dates can change as construction progresses. Keep your removal company informed and ask about flexible booking or storage.

2. Book a Snagging Inspection

A snagging inspection checks for defects such as poor finishes, faulty fittings or doors that do not close properly. Report snags to the developer in writing.

3. Understand Your Warranty

Most new builds come with a structural warranty from a provider such as NHBC. Read what is covered, for how long, and how to make a claim.

4. Check Access for the Removal Van

Some new developments have unfinished roads, temporary access or site traffic. Tell your removal company and ask the developer about access on moving day.

5. Measure Rooms Before Moving

New build rooms can be smaller than older homes. Measure rooms and doorways and check whether your furniture will fit.

6. Set Up Utilities and Broadband Early

Find out which energy supplier the home is connected to, and arrange broadband early, as new developments sometimes take time to connect.

7. Check for Service or Estate Charges

Some new developments have management companies that charge for shared spaces, roads or landscaping. Make sure you understand any charges before completion.

8. Register for Council Tax

Contact your local council to register for council tax. New homes may need to be banded before your first bill.

9. Learn How Everything Works

Ask for instructions for the heating, ventilation, alarms and appliances. Keep all manuals and warranties together.

10. Be Patient With Settling

New homes can show small cracks as materials dry out. These are often normal, but keep a note and report anything concerning under your warranty.

Your First Week in a New Build

In your first week, test every tap, socket, window and door, and note anything that does not work. Find the stopcock, fuse box and meters, and register your appliance warranties. Report snags to the developer in writing and keep copies, along with dates and photos, so you have a clear record.

What Affects the Cost of Moving Into a New Build

The cost of moving into a new build usually depends on:

•           Size of the move. More furniture means a bigger crew and vehicle.

•           Distance. Local and long-distance moves are priced differently.

•           Access. Unfinished roads or site restrictions can add time.

•           Storage. Useful if your completion date is delayed.

•           Packing and extras. Professional packing and assembly are usually extra.

•           Timing. Busy dates are in higher demand.

Getting Help With Your Move

A flexible removal company helps when new build completion dates change. Shaheen Express Removals is based at 29 Burnside, St Albans, and has more than 20 years in the trade. It covers London, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Essex, and offers house removals with packing, furniture removals and storage. The company says it is fully insured and that its team is DBS-checked, and at the time of writing its Google Business Profile shows a 5.0-star rating from 444 reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is snagging?

Snagging means checking a new home for defects and unfinished work, then asking the developer to fix them.

What if my completion date is delayed?

Keep your removal company informed and consider short-term storage if you have to leave your current home first.

Do new build homes have warranties?

Most do. Check the provider, what is covered and how long the warranty lasts.

Can a removal van get onto a new development?

Usually, but site roads may be unfinished. Check access with the developer before moving day.

Conclusion