Arrival Essentials
Four phases from keys in hand to settled for the first night. Work through each phase as you arrive. Nothing is saved.
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Work through each phase as you arrive.
01Property Check
Document the property's condition before you bring anything in — these records protect your deposit at the end of the tenancy.
Meter readings photographed · Property condition documented room by room · Any marks or damage noted · Keys and access confirmed
02Utilities
Confirm each service is active now, while you still have the energy to chase a problem.
Electricity on and working · Heating and hot water confirmed · Internet status checked with provider · Any issues reported to landlord or agent
03Essential Setup
Unpack only what the next 24 hours require — everything else can wait until tomorrow.
Essentials kit unpacked · Bathroom basics accessible · Kitchen ready for a basic meal · Medications and first aid located
04First Night
Rest is the priority tonight. Settling takes weeks — tonight just needs to be comfortable.
Bedding set up · Food arranged · Phone charged for the morning · Tomorrow kept simple
Arrival reminders
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Take meter readings at the new property immediately and email the photos to yourself — disputes are much harder to resolve without a timestamped record.
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Photograph any existing damage or marks before you unpack — room by room, including inside cupboards and behind doors.
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If broadband is not active, contact the provider today — lead times for new installations can be 1–2 weeks.
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Keep your essentials kit separate from the main boxes — you should be able to find everything you need tonight without opening a single large box.
Document First
Before unpacking a single box, walk through the property and document its condition. Photograph every room, record meter readings, and email the photos to yourself immediately. This takes 15 minutes and protects you from disputes that could cost hundreds of pounds months from now.
The First 24 Hours
You do not need to unpack everything today. The goal is to confirm the property works, find what you need for tonight, and rest. Everything else can wait until you are less tired and more settled.