Moving into a new home involves a surprising number of moving parts, and it’s the small things that tend to slip through the cracks. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned mover, this checklist is designed to make sure nothing gets missed before, during, or after your move in Waterloo Region.
6–8 Weeks Before Moving Day
- Set your moving date and book movers or reserve a rental truck
- Begin decluttering: donate, sell, or discard what you don’t want to bring
- Source packing supplies: boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers
- Notify your landlord (if renting) of your move-out date in writing
- Research school registration if you have children moving school districts within Waterloo Region
4–6 Weeks Before Moving Day
- Begin packing non-essentials: seasonal items, books, décor, and storage areas
- Arrange mail forwarding through Canada Post
- Update your address with your bank, employer, insurance providers, and the CRA
- Contact utilities to schedule disconnection at your current home and connection at the new one (this includes electricity, gas, internet, and water)
- Transfer or cancel local memberships at gyms, libraries, or community centres in Cambridge, Kitchener, or Waterloo
1–2 Weeks Before Moving Day
- Confirm your moving company and reconfirm all logistics
- Measure large furniture against doorways and stairwells in your new home
- Pack room by room with clearly labelled boxes
- Prepare an essentials bag with everything you need for the first 24 hours
- Arrange care for children or pets on moving day if needed
- Clean out your fridge a day or two before the move
- Complete a Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) as scheduled for a new construction home
Moving Day
- Do a final walkthrough of your current home before leaving: check every room, closet, cabinet, and outdoor space
- Keep important documents with you and off the truck
- Confirm all boxes are labelled before the movers arrive
- Complete your PDI sign-off appointment, or a walkthrough of your new rental home, before the truck is unloaded to note any existing marks or issues.
First Week in Your New Home
- Update your driver’s licence and health card through Service Ontario
- Review all maintenance information provided and be prepared to locate your breaker panel, water shut-off and furnace so you know where they are in an emergency.
- Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
- Additional manufacturer’s warranty may be applicable to any HVAC or appliances included with the home. Consult your owners’ manuals for details, as registration timelines may apply.
- Introduce yourself to your neighbours, especially important in close-knit communities in Waterloo Region!
First Month in Your New Home
- Finish unpacking at your own pace, prioritizing the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom first
- Register for any community amenities available in your neighbourhood
- Set up a home maintenance schedule so seasonal tasks don’t sneak up on you
- Explore your new neighbourhood and find your nearest grocery store, pharmacy, parks, and favourite coffee shop
Moving Soon? You’re Already Ahead.
Moving into an Activa space means many of the bigger unknowns are already taken care of — from fresh finishes to a new home warranty that gives you real peace of mind from day one. If you’re preparing for an upcoming move into one of our communities across Kitchener, Cambridge, or Waterloo, our Customer Experience team is here to help make the transition as seamless as possible. Get in touch with us to take the first step into moving into your new space!
