Frequently asked questions about moving

What is a moving checklist?

A moving checklist is an overview of everything you need to arrange around your move. This includes ending your lease, arranging moving help, energy, internet, address changes, insurance, meter readings, the home handover, and actions after the move.

When should I create a moving checklist?

Create your moving checklist as soon as you know you are moving. The earlier you start, the easier it is to schedule everything on time. It is useful to check actions such as moving help, energy, internet, and ending your lease well before moving day.

Why use a personal moving checklist?

No two moves are the same. A personal checklist considers your situation, such as whether you rent or own, are moving to another municipality, need help, or receive housing allowance. This means you only see actions that are relevant to you.

Which steps are included in a moving plan?

The moving plan includes steps for each phase: preparation, internet and energy, address and insurance, moving week, and actions after the move. This clearly shows what comes first and what can wait.

What should I arrange first when moving?

Start with your moving date, rental or purchase arrangements, ending your lease, and moving help. Then arrange internet, energy, your municipal address change, insurance, and mail. Finish with meter readings, the handover, any housing allowance changes, and the post-move checklist.

Can I update my moving checklist later?

Yes. Your situation can change during the move. Update your checklist if your moving date, new address, living situation, or schedule changes.

End your lease

How long is the notice period for my rental home?

The notice period is generally equal to the period between two rent payments. If you pay monthly, it is usually one month. For tenants, the notice period is at least one month and no more than three months. Always check your rental agreement.

When should I end my lease if I am moving?

Give notice as soon as your moving date is certain. Make sure your landlord receives it before the notice date. If your rental agreement does not state a notice date, send it before the day on which you normally pay rent.

Can I end my lease on the first or last day of the month?

That depends on your rental agreement and rent payment date. If rent is due before the first, the notice period generally starts on the first if your landlord receives the notice before then. Choose an end date that matches your notice period.

Do I need to give a reason for ending my lease?

No. As a tenant, you generally do not need to give a reason. Clearly state that you are ending the lease, which home it concerns, and the date on which you want the lease to end.

Can I end my lease by email?

Only if your landlord accepts this or clearly confirms receipt. A registered letter provides more certainty because you have proof that the notice was sent and received.

Should I send my lease termination by registered mail?

Registered mail is strongly recommended. It lets you prove that your landlord received the notice. Keep the shipping receipt, delivery confirmation, and a copy of the letter.

What happens after I end my lease?

After giving notice, arrange the handover of the rental home. This often includes a preliminary inspection followed by a final inspection. Leave the home clean, repair damage, and keep the inspection report.

Arrange moving help

When should I arrange moving help?

Arrange help as soon as you know your moving date. For a moving company, four to six weeks in advance is sensible, especially with many belongings, during a busy period, or for a weekend move. If moving with friends, confirm early who can help and when.

Should I move myself or hire a moving company?

Moving yourself is often cheaper and more flexible but takes more time and physical effort. A moving company is useful for many belongings, heavy furniture, several floors, or limited help. Compare costs, damage risk, available help, and how much stress you want to avoid.

How much does a moving company cost?

Costs depend on the amount of belongings, distance, floors, accessibility, moving date, and extra services such as packing, storage, or a furniture lift. Always request an itemized quote showing what is and is not included.

How do I compare moving quotes?

Compare more than the total price. Review the work, hourly or fixed rate, travel and parking charges, insurance, deductible, terms, payment dates, and what happens if the move runs late or damage occurs.

What should I look for in a moving company?

Check reviews, clear terms, insurance, a written quote, availability, and any membership in a trade association or dispute-resolution body. For a large or difficult move, ask whether the movers can inspect it beforehand.

Are my belongings insured during the move?

This varies by moving company and its terms. Check the insured amount, whether damage is reimbursed at current or replacement value, and whether a deductible applies. Document this in writing before agreeing.

When do I need a furniture lift?

A furniture lift can help on high floors, with narrow stairs, heavy furniture, or in a building without a large elevator. Check that there is enough space and whether you need to reserve parking or obtain a permit.

Are student movers a good option?

Student movers can be affordable for smaller or straightforward moves. Check for clear agreements about price, insurance, damage, equipment, and experience with heavy or fragile belongings.

Arrange your utilities on time

Internet & Energy

Move your internet & TV services

View this moving step: Move your internet & TV services

When should I arrange internet when moving?

Arrange internet as soon as you know your new address and moving date. Preferably start six weeks in advance, especially if you need a technician or are switching providers. This gives you more time to schedule installation and delivery properly.

Can I take my current internet plan to my new address?

That depends on your provider, contract, and availability at your new address. Check whether your current plan can be supplied there. If not, check the terms for a moving arrangement or whether you can switch.

View this moving step: Move your internet & TV services

Should I transfer my internet plan or switch?

Transferring is convenient if you are satisfied and your provider serves the new address. Switching may be attractive if your contract is ending, you want faster service, or you find a cheaper plan. Comparing price, speed, contract length, installation, and terms can sometimes save dozens of euros per month.

View this moving step: Move your internet & TV services

Can I save by comparing internet and TV?

Yes. Moving is a good time to compare providers. Different providers or new-customer promotions may be available at your new address. Comparing prices, speeds, and terms shows whether switching is more affordable than your current plan.

View this moving step: Move your internet & TV services

Do I need to cancel my old internet plan myself?

If you use a switching service, your new provider may handle the cancellation. Otherwise, start the new plan first and cancel the old one afterward. Always ask for confirmation.

View this moving step: Move your internet & TV services

How can I avoid being without internet temporarily?

Schedule installation around moving day and do not cancel your old plan too early. Ask when the new plan becomes active. A short interruption may occur when switching, but it should be limited.

View this moving step: Move your internet & TV services

What is the notice period for my internet plan?

After the fixed term, you can generally cancel a telecom plan without charge with no more than one month’s notice. Charges may apply during the fixed term. Always check your contract.

View this moving step: Move your internet & TV services

Can I cancel my internet plan without charge because I am moving?

Not always. Some providers offer moving arrangements, but charges may apply if you are still under contract. Check the general terms for what happens if you move and your provider cannot serve the new address.

View this moving step: Move your internet & TV services

Move your energy contract

When should I arrange energy service when moving?

Arrange energy as soon as you know your new address and moving date. Preferably start four weeks in advance. If you want to switch suppliers, this gives you enough time to compare them, make an affordable choice, and schedule the start of your new contract properly.

Can I take my energy contract to my new address, or should I switch?

In many cases, you can transfer your energy contract to your new home. Check whether the terms remain the same and whether the contract is still affordable for your new situation. Moving is also a good time to compare suppliers because your new home may use energy differently and better rates may be available.

Can I save by comparing energy contracts when moving?

Yes. Comparing contracts may reduce your monthly energy costs. Consider not only the monthly payment but also rates, contract length, fixed charges, welcome discounts, and terms. This gives you a better view of total costs.

What should I consider when comparing energy contracts?

Compare expected annual or monthly costs, contract length, fixed and variable rates, sustainability, customer service, welcome discounts, solar export charges, and any cancellation fee. The lowest monthly price is not always the most affordable long-term choice.

Do I need to cancel my energy contract when switching or moving?

Not always. You can often transfer your contract, or your new supplier may handle the switch. Check whether your current contract still has a fixed term and whether a cancellation fee applies. Always read its terms before switching.

When should I submit meter readings, and will I receive a final bill?

Record the readings at your old and new homes on moving day and take photos as evidence. If they are not read automatically, submit them to your supplier. You will receive a final bill for your old address. Check that the correct readings were used and keep the photos.

When should I start a new energy contract for my new home?

Start a new contract as soon as you know when you become responsible for the new address. This prevents you from being without an active contract and lets you benefit from your chosen rate immediately. Preferably arrange it several weeks before moving.

Notify everyone

Address & Insurance

Report your address change to the municipality

View this moving step: Report your address change to the municipality

When should I report my move to the municipality?

You can report your move from four weeks before the moving date. Do so no later than five days after moving. If you report it later, the municipality may use the report date as your moving date.

Which municipality should I report my move to?

Report your move to the municipality where you will live. If you are moving to another municipality, you generally do not need to notify your old municipality separately.

View this moving step: Report your address change to the municipality

Do I need to deregister from my old municipality?

No. When moving within the Netherlands, you generally do not need to deregister separately. The new municipality processes your address change in the BRP and the old municipality is updated automatically.

View this moving step: Report your address change to the municipality

What do I need to change my address with the municipality?

To report online, you generally need your new address, moving date, DigiD, and proof of occupancy, such as a rental agreement, purchase deed, or permission from the primary resident. If you report the move in person, you also need a valid ID.

View this moving step: Report your address change to the municipality

Can I report my move online with DigiD?

Many municipalities let you report a move online with DigiD. Some also allow reporting by mail or at a service desk. The options vary by municipality.

View this moving step: Report your address change to the municipality

Who receives my new address automatically?

Your address is updated in the Personal Records Database. Government organizations authorized to use your BRP data receive it automatically. You often need to notify businesses and private organizations yourself. See the ‘Forward mail’ step on Direct-Regelen.nl.

View this moving step: Report your address change to the municipality

What happens if I report my move too late?

If you report more than five days after moving, the municipality may use the report date as your moving date. Municipalities may also impose a fine if important changes are not reported on time.

View this moving step: Report your address change to the municipality

Forward your mail

When should I forward mail when moving?

Arrange mail forwarding as soon as you know your moving date. Preferably do this one to two weeks before the move so the service can start around your moving date. Also give important organizations your new address directly.

Is forwarding mail the same as changing my address?

No. Mail forwarding is temporary and serves as a safety net. Changing your address means giving organizations your new address directly. Do both: have mail forwarded temporarily and update your address with important organizations.

Which organizations receive my new address automatically?

Government organizations authorized to use your BRP data may receive your new address automatically after you report your move to the municipality. This does not apply to every organization. You often need to notify businesses, online stores, subscription services, and many private organizations yourself.

Who should I personally notify of my address change?

At a minimum, give your new address to your bank, insurer, employer, healthcare providers, doctor, pharmacy, associations, subscription services, telecom provider, online stores, and other organizations from which you expect mail.

Do I need to change my mailing address separately with the Belastingdienst?

For a regular move, the Belastingdienst generally receives your residential address through the municipality. If you want to receive Belastingdienst mail somewhere other than your residential address, you can report or change a separate mailing address.

How long should I forward mail after moving?

Choose a period that suits your situation. A short period may be enough if you report every address change quickly. If you still expect substantial mail at your old address, choose a longer period and update your address list in the meantime.

What should I do if mail still arrives at my old address?

Ask the new resident or landlord to keep the mail separate temporarily or return it to the sender. Then identify which organization still uses your old address and give it your new address directly.

Update your insurance when moving

View this moving step: Update your insurance when moving

Which insurance policies should I check when moving?

Check your contents, homeowners, liability, and auto insurance in particular. Do you have legal expenses, travel, or valuables insurance? Check whether your address, household situation, and coverage are still correct there too.

Do I need to update my contents insurance when I move?

Yes. Give your insurer your new address and moving date. Your premium and coverage may change because of the new address, type of home, security, or value of your belongings. Also check whether your belongings are insured during the move and any temporary storage.

View this moving step: Update your insurance when moving

Do I need homeowners insurance as a tenant?

Usually not. Homeowners insurance covers the building itself and is the homeowner’s responsibility. As a tenant, you generally need contents insurance instead. Check whether glass, tenant improvements, or improvements you made yourself need separate coverage.

View this moving step: Update your insurance when moving

Do I need homeowners insurance as a buyer?

Homeowners insurance is often required for an owner-occupied home and is generally requested by the mortgage lender. It covers damage to the home itself and permanent fixtures. Start the coverage on the date you become responsible for the home.

View this moving step: Update your insurance when moving

Are my belongings insured during the move or temporary storage?

That depends on your policy terms. Some policies provide temporary coverage at two addresses or in storage, but conditions, time limits, or maximum reimbursements often apply. Always notify your insurer about temporary storage or a different address.

View this moving step: Update your insurance when moving

Do I need to update my auto insurance after moving?

Give your auto insurer your new address. Your address may affect the premium or risk assessment. Also check whether your parking location, annual mileage, or use of the car will change because of your move.

View this moving step: Update your insurance when moving

Can I switch to another insurer when moving?

Sometimes, depending on your contract and terms. For property and casualty insurance, you can generally cancel after the first year with no more than one month’s notice. Always compare the premium, coverage, deductible, and terms before switching.

View this moving step: Update your insurance when moving

Get through the big day smoothly

Moving week

Record meter readings

When should I record meter readings when moving?

Record the meter readings on moving day or the day of the key handover. Record the final readings at your old home before returning the keys and the opening readings at your new home as soon as you have access.

Which meter readings should I record?

Record the gas, electricity, and water readings. If your electricity meter has several registers, such as standard and off-peak rates, record every visible reading. Also take photos that clearly show the meter number.

Do I need to submit readings if I have a smart meter?

A smart meter may submit readings automatically. Check that your supplier processed them correctly. To be safe, still take photos of the readings on moving day.

Where do I submit my meter readings?

Submit gas and electricity readings to your energy supplier. Submit the water reading to your drinking-water company. Follow the relevant supplier’s instructions.

When should I submit meter readings?

Submit readings as soon as possible after moving. Energy readings often need to be submitted within a few days. Your supplier will explain how and by what deadline to submit them.

Why should I photograph meter readings?

Photos help if questions later arise about usage, final or opening readings, or the final bill. Make sure the numbers, meter number, and preferably the date can be identified clearly.

What happens if I do not submit meter readings?

If you do not submit readings, your supplier may estimate your usage. Your final or opening bill may then differ from your actual usage. Always check the bills afterward.

Hand over your old home

How should I hand over a rental home?

You generally hand over the home as agreed in the rental agreement and condition report. It usually needs to be empty, clean, and free of damage you caused. Always check your landlord’s or housing association’s requirements.

How do I prepare to hand over an owner-occupied home?

An owner-occupied home generally has a final inspection shortly before the transfer at the notary. Check that the home is left in the agreed condition, record meter readings, and make sure every key is available for the buyer.

What is a preliminary inspection?

For a rental home, the landlord may perform a preliminary inspection before the end date. You will be told which items still need repair or cleaning before the final handover.

What happens during a final inspection?

A final inspection checks whether the home is being handed over as agreed. Inspect the home’s condition together and have any comments recorded in writing.

Do I need to repair damage before handing over the home?

You generally need to repair damage you caused yourself. Normal wear from ordinary use usually does not need repair. Always check which agreements apply to your situation.

When will I get my security deposit back?

For a rental home, the landlord must return the deposit if the home was handed over as agreed and there are no outstanding costs. Any deductions must be explained and itemized.

What should I keep after the handover?

Keep photos, inspection reports, meter readings, emails, transfer documents, and proof of the key transfer. These documents may be important if questions arise about damage, costs, or the final bill.

Wrap up and settle in

After the move

Update your housing allowance

View this moving step: Update your housing allowance

Do I need to update my housing allowance when I move?

Yes. If your living situation changes because you move, check whether you need to update, apply for, or stop your housing allowance. If you move to another rental home, you usually report your new rent. If you move from a rental home to one that does not qualify, you often need to stop your allowance.

When can I update my housing allowance after moving?

You can do this as soon as your new address appears in Mijn Toeslagen. This usually happens after the municipality processes your move. First check that you reported your address change correctly to the municipality.

View this moving step: Update your housing allowance

What do I need to report for housing allowance when moving?

Report your new rent, start date, address, and living situation. Also check that your household is correct, for example if you will live with a partner or if other residents move in or out.

View this moving step: Update your housing allowance

Do I need to reapply for housing allowance for a new rental home?

If you already receive housing allowance and move to another rental home, you usually do not need to reapply. You report your new rent instead. If you move from a home without housing allowance to a rental home that may qualify, you can apply after you move and register there.

View this moving step: Update your housing allowance

When do I need to stop housing allowance?

Stop your housing allowance if you no longer meet the conditions. Examples include moving from a rental to an owner-occupied home, no longer renting, having income or assets above the limit, or a change in your living situation.

View this moving step: Update your housing allowance

Can my housing allowance increase or decrease after moving?

Yes. Your allowance can change because of your new rent, income, assets, age, household, and other residents. After updating your details, always check the new monthly amount in Mijn Toeslagen.

View this moving step: Update your housing allowance

What happens if I update my housing allowance too late?

You may receive too much or too little housing allowance. You will have to repay any excess later. Report changes as soon as possible and check the new decision.

View this moving step: Update your housing allowance

Post-move checklist

What is the post-move checklist?

The post-move checklist is the final check of your moving plan. You check that every important step is complete, including your address change, energy, internet, mail, insurance, meter readings, home handover, and any allowances.

When should I perform the final check after moving?

Perform the first final check around moving day or within one week after your move. Check again after two to four weeks because invoices, confirmations, mail, and refunds often arrive later.

Which moving tasks should I check after the move?

Check that the municipality processed your address change, energy and internet work, meter readings were submitted, mail arrives correctly, insurance was updated, and allowances or other financial matters are correct.

Do I need to check anything with the municipality after moving?

Yes. Check that your new address was processed correctly. You can check your details later through MijnOverheid. If the address is incorrect, contact the municipality for your new address.

When should I check meter readings and the final bill?

Check your readings immediately after submitting them and compare them with the final bill later. Keep photos of the readings until both the final bill and first new bill are correct.

Which documents should I keep after moving?

Keep confirmations, contracts, cancellation notices, meter readings, photos, inspection reports, key receipts, invoices, and messages about allowances or refunds. This gives you evidence if questions arise later.

What should I do if I forgot a moving step?

Arrange the missed step as soon as possible. Start with matters that can affect money, contactability, or official records, such as the municipality, energy, insurance, mail, housing allowance, and final bills.