Completion Day Checklist

Who this is for

Keep the day the money moves in order. Each confirmation is written down with the time and who gave it, alongside meter readings and the final look round.

Buyers and sellers on the day of completion, including those who are both at once in a chain and need to track money and keys going in both directions.

What this helps you track

• Solicitor, agent and removals contacts where you can reach them
• Jobs to finish before the day and first thing that morning
• When funds were confirmed and keys released or collected, and by whom
• Meter readings taken at the handover
• What was checked and what was left behind at the property

How to use it

1. Write the completion date and the phone numbers of both solicitors, the agent and the removals firm at the top.
2. Work through the before the day list in the week leading up to completion.
3. On the morning, tick off each job and fill in the time and name for every confirmation as it comes through.
4. Take the meter readings when you arrive or leave, and photograph each meter as well.
5. Walk round before handing over or unpacking, and note anything left behind or not as expected.
6. Use the browser version, which saves in your own browser, if you would rather tick things off on your phone.

Formats

• Printable PDF (A4 and US Letter)
• Fillable PDF with form fields
• Fill in online, saved in your browser

The printable is laid out inside a box that fits both A4 and US Letter, so the two files are identical and neither one is scaled. The fillable PDF has real form fields. The online version keeps what you enter in your own browser and builds the completed PDF on your device.

How to print

Download the A4 or US Letter file to match the paper in your printer, open it in a PDF reader and print at 100% — not "fit to page", which shrinks the writing space. Both files leave a 14 mm margin, which clears the unprintable edge on home printers. To print the online version with your entries in it, use the Print this sheet button, which prints only the sheet and none of the page around it. More on printing.

Questions

What time does completion happen?

It happens when the money reaches the seller's solicitor, which can be any time in the working day. Your solicitor will ring or email to confirm; write the time on the sheet when they do.

Who releases the keys?

Usually the estate agent, once the seller's solicitor tells them the money has arrived. Arrangements vary, so ask your agent or solicitor beforehand and note who will hand them over.

Why take my own meter readings?

They give you a dated record to pass to the energy and water suppliers, so the bills are split correctly between the old and new occupiers. A photo of each meter is useful backing.

What if something is missing from the property?

Note it on the sheet with the time and take photographs, then tell your solicitor as soon as possible. They can advise on what can be done under your contract.