Moving house in summer is popular for good reason, with longer days, school holidays and generally better weather making it feel like a more manageable time to relocate. However, as the record-breaking temperatures at the end of June and July have shown, a summer house move isn’t always plain sailing. Packing, lifting and transporting your belongings in extreme heat can quickly become exhausting, and if you’re not prepared, it can add unnecessary stress to what is already a busy day.
With a little planning, though, you can keep your move running smoothly.
Practical tips for moving house during a heatwave
Stay hydrated – It sounds obvious, but it’s easy to forget when you’re focused on getting everything packed and loaded. Keep plenty of cold water available throughout the day and take regular breaks, especially if you’re lifting heavy furniture or spending time outside.
Get organised – start packing up your house as much as possible during the weeks leading up to your moving day. This leaves you less to do on the day.
Start as early in the day as possible – The coolest part of the day is usually first thing in the morning. If you can, begin loading boxes and completing the heaviest jobs before the hottest temperatures arrive in the afternoon.
Move the heavy items first – Large pieces of furniture and appliances require the most effort. Tackling these while temperatures are lower can make the day far more manageable.
Don’t try to do it all yourself – Moving house is hard work at the best of times. Ask family or friends for help or consider using a professional removals company to take some of the pressure off. The cost can often be worth it for the time and stress it saves.
Get your fridge and freezer running quickly – If possible, reconnect your fridge and freezer or ensure the integrated appliances are up and running as soon as you arrive at your new home. Hot weather can reduce the amount of time chilled and frozen food stays safe during a move.
Wear cool comfortable clothing – try to stay cool by wearing light, breathable fabrics. Avoid the temptation to wear flip flops or open toe shoes when moving. Be sure to apply sunscreen, even if you feel like you are in and out throughout the day.
Pack an essentials bag – Keep important items with you rather than buried in boxes. Include medication, phone chargers, important documents, toiletries, snacks, water, and a change of clothes so you’re not searching through dozens of boxes on your first evening.
Prepare your vehicle – If you’re moving a long distance, make sure your car or van is ready for the journey. Check tyre pressures, coolant levels and fuel before setting off, particularly during periods of exceptionally hot weather where vehicles can be put under greater strain.
Make arrangements for pets and children – Not only will they struggle in the heat, they are likely to get under your feet and add to the stress of moving day. Try to make plans for them to be taken care of for the day.
Keeping the conveyancing process running smoothly
Practical preparations are only part of a successful house move. Keeping the conveyancing process organised can also help avoid unnecessary delays, particularly during the busy summer months.
Many professionals involved in your transaction, including solicitors, estate agents, mortgage brokers and removal companies, may have annual leave booked during the summer holiday season. While firms will always have arrangements in place to maintain service, planning ahead can help prevent avoidable hold-ups.
To keep everything moving:
- Respond promptly to requests from your solicitor
- Return signed documents as quickly as possible
- Transfer any required funds well in advance of completion
- Check who will be handling your file if your usual contact is away
- Keep communication open with your estate agent and mortgage broker so everyone is aware of progress
If you’re hoping to complete before a holiday or a planned trip, let your solicitor know as early as possible. The more notice everyone has, the easier it is to coordinate timescales and manage expectations.
Planning ahead can make your summer move easier
Moving house should be an exciting milestone, and with some careful preparation there’s no reason the summer heat has to spoil the experience.
Whether it’s staying cool on moving day or keeping on top of the legal process behind the scenes, being organised can help ensure your move is as straightforward and stress-free as possible.
If you’re planning to move house this summer and have questions about the conveyancing process, our experienced residential conveyancing team is here to guide you through each stage with clear, practical advice.
FAQs: Moving house in summer
What should I do first when moving house in hot weather?
Start by planning the practical jobs that are hardest to do in the heat. Pack as much as possible in advance, keep water easily available, and aim to move heavier items earlier in the day before temperatures rise.
How can I avoid conveyancing delays during a summer house move?
Respond to your solicitor promptly, return signed documents as soon as you can, and transfer any required funds well in advance of completion. If you know you will be away over the summer, let your solicitor know early so timescales can be managed clearly.
Can my family automatically manage my finances if I become ill abroad?
Not necessarily. Without a Property and Financial Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney, they may need legal authority through the Court of Protection.
How often should I review my estate planning?
It is good practice to review your Will and estate planning every few years, or sooner if you experience significant life changes such as marriage, divorce, retirement or acquiring substantial assets.