You have bought a new-build home and are probably wondering how long you have to wait before you can actually move. We at Moving understand that you have all kinds of frequently asked questions, because such a new-build process can be quite exciting. After all, you want to enjoy your new home as soon as possible and still not rush anything. In this article, you will discover step by step when it is smartest to move after new-build completion, which points of attention need to be taken into account and how you can limit double costs if you have not yet sold your old home. In this article, we will give you more information about this.
The delivery process of a new-build house
The process of delivering new construction can sometimes seem complicated. However, it helps to understand the steps so that you are well prepared when you move into your new home.
What is the delivery?
The delivery is the moment when the builder officially transfers the new-build home to you. Together you check whether the house meets the agreements in the purchase agreement, such as the quality of walls and floors, pipes and finishing. Then you sign and continue with plans for moving the new-build home. You usually do this during the delivery.
Moving new construction
In this step you also check whether the house is ready for use. For example, you look for damage, cracks in the walls or defects. You assess whether the house is immediately in order or whether there is still work to be done.
Pre-delivery of new-build house
During the pre-delivery, you often walk through your new-build house with the builder 1 to 2 weeks before the official delivery date. You make a list of common defects such as loose skirting boards or poorly closing doors. You use that list as a starting point for the final delivery of the new-build. That way, you don't miss anything.
Moving to a new-build home: points to consider
Many buyers wonder what they should bring to the delivery. Think of a checklist with all the discussed additional options, any quotes from the contractor and a measuring tape. Some people also bring a construction knowledge, because an extra pair of eyes often sees more.
The final delivery
The final delivery feels like a big moment. You assess whether the builder has addressed all the points of the preliminary delivery. You finally sign the delivery document. After that, the house is in your name and you can continue moving to a new-build house. Note that you can still have some defects repaired free of charge a year after delivery. Therefore, read your warranty conditions carefully.
Factors that influence the moving date
Construction moisture and moisture in the walls
Construction moisture often remains in new-build homes due to the materials used and weather conditions during construction. Walls and floors sometimes contain a lot of moisture and this must gradually disappear. It can take 9 months or even 12 months for most of the moisture to disappear. You can already move into your new home, but you must ventilate sufficiently so that moisture in the walls does not lead to mold or warping of wooden parts. Some people rent a construction dryer. This speeds up the drying process, especially in the first weeks after delivery.
Finishing of walls and floors: no cracks in the walls
In many cases, your house is not yet completely finished when the new construction is delivered. The walls are sometimes ready for wallpaper or paint, but not always perfectly smooth. You can have them plastered, paint them yourself or choose wallpaper. Make sure that your walls are dry enough, because shabby wallpaper and cracks in the walls due to moisture cause a lot of hassle. Many people wait months after delivery until everything is properly dried.
It's different from your old home
You can have a laminate floor installed or choose another type of floor. Keep in mind that some floors do not adhere well if there is too much construction moisture underneath. Do you have underfloor heating? Then a construction protocol is needed to prevent damage, because the floor must gradually get used to the temperature. The floor has of course been exposed to cold temperatures, so wait a few extra weeks with this.
Minor defects and delivery points
Minor defects such as loose skirting boards, leaking taps or paintwork that is not neat are called delivery points. These are common defects and almost always occur. Report them to your builder, certainly within three months. Below you will see a list of some common minor issues:
| Lack | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Loose skirting boards | Insufficient bonding | Use stronger sealant or glue |
| Cracks in the walls | Operation of material | Re-caulk or re-plaster |
| Gaps in windows | Bad adjustment | Adjusting or replacing rubbers |
| Peeling paint | Insufficiently dried substrate | Re-apply after proper preparation |
Bought/rented a new build home?Utilities
You will need gas, water and electricity in your new home. You will usually have to arrange these utilities yourself. It is better to start this early. Otherwise you run the risk of receiving your key while there is no power in your new home. Providers in your area sometimes have a waiting period, especially for internet and TV. Therefore, request quotes in good time and check that everything works as soon as you receive the keys.
Average timeline: from completion to moving to a new-build home
We see that many people move to a new-build home between 1 to 2 and 9 months after completion. One person wants to move into the home immediately and accepts the minor defects, while the other waits until the construction moisture has largely disappeared. Your old home sometimes also has to be put up for sale. This way you avoid double costs if you do not have two mortgages for too long.
A handy mnemonic:
- Move immediately if you don't have too many jobs left.
- Move within three months if the house is largely finished, but you still have some outstanding issues.
- Months to wait if you want to have the house thoroughly plastered, painted and ventilated first.
Optimal timing for moving after new construction completion
Are you wondering when the best time is to set your moving date? Then think about the condition of your new place and your personal situation. Also consider how quickly you can sell your current home, so that you don't have to deal with double costs for too long. Sometimes it pays to put that old home up for sale only after you are sure that you will get the keys to your new place.
Leave the property immediately to avoid double charges
Many people find that they benefit from an interim solution. They temporarily store their belongings and live with family for a few weeks. This option limits stress when the construction dryer is roaring in your house or the plasterer is still walking around.
Preparations for the move to new construction
- Make a step-by-step plan. Note which rooms you want to finish first and when you can move in.
- Request quotes from movers. Plan your chores so that a moving company doesn't find the door closed because painters are still working.
- Check your mortgages. Can you handle a period of double charges or Do you want to sell your current home first?
- Pack wisely. Sort your belongings into moving boxes, label them and put them together in a convenient place. That will save you so much hassle.
- Make sure you are well prepared. Pay attention to details like your home insurance. You don't want to be uninsured in your new place when something goes wrong.
Anecdote: Jansen family
The Jansen family decided to move 9 months after the delivery date. They thought that was a long time, but the walls dried well and they could lay the laminate flooring without any problems. This prevented cracks in the walls due to moisture. In addition, they had not yet sold their old home. This strategy helped them to keep double costs within limits.
Dealing with defects after completion of new construction
Are you still having problems after the key transfer? When dealing with defects after delivery of new construction, it is wise to put everything on paper and email the contractor quickly. Defects are often covered by the warranty within three months. For larger construction errors, you sometimes have a warranty period of up to a year after delivery or even longer.
Common defects after moving to a new home
- Cracks in the walls
- Warping of frames or doors
- Peeling paintwork
- Ventilation problems due to incorrectly adjusted grilles
These defects occur regularly, so don't be too alarmed. Together with the builder, you can usually solve it quickly. Just keep your papers and contracts at hand when you communicate about it. Find out when, for example, laying flooring is sensible by asking about this during the delivery. That way, your house may be ready quickly during the move... because to move every time...
Frequently asked questions about new construction moving
Can I move into a newly completed home right away?
Yes, that is possible, but you have to take into account that there is still construction moisture and that you may encounter small defects. You can report defects within three months. The manager of the new construction knows all this and often they have their own people such as plasterers who can help you.
Mortgages: Should I put my old house up for sale immediately?
You can put your old home up for sale whenever you want. Just be careful that double charges can increase if your old home is not sold in time. This way you can move to your new neighborhood relaxed.
How long does it take for walls and floors to completely dry?
It varies. Some homes are reasonably dry within three months, but in others it can take 9 to 12 months for all the moisture to disappear. Always wait until most of the moisture is gone because there is simply a lot of moisture in a new home.
What do I do with my belongings if I cannot move in yet?
Consider temporary storage or store your stuff with friends or family. Of course, your stuff needs to be safe. Look carefully at what needs to be sold, because you might be able to earn some extra money and avoid stressful situations.
Do I need to use a construction dryer right away?
This is not always necessary, but it does speed up the drying process. Especially in cold or damp weather it is smart to support ventilation. More information about this is best requested from the housing association / provider.
How long after completion of my new-build home can I move?
You can move to a new-build home as soon as the home is completed and your personal situation allows it. Some people move in the same week, others wait months after completion. Pay attention to construction moisture, plan your moving date only when you know you have the key and prevent stress by organizing things like furniture, moving boxes and current housing smartly. Do you want to put your home up for sale immediately? Then you have to decide for yourself when this is best to do. The housing market is difficult enough and this is something to take into account. This way you can be sure that your situation will only improve after selling your home.
Moving to new construction is fun
A new-build house is a nice place to live, but know that you may have to do a bit more work in the beginning. These jobs are often not too bad if you make a good plan in advance and have clear agreements with the builder. Do pay attention to points such as moisture release, and the front and back garden.
Moving is happy to help you
Do you have any questions about moving to a new building or are you unsure about the right timing? Let us know in the comments below. We at Moving are happy to help you. Share this article with people in your area who are also involved in new construction. In this way, together we can prevent unnecessary stress and ensure that you can move into your new home with peace of mind. Good luck with the delivery of the new building and enjoy your future home!
