Moving to a new home is exciting, but packing up your entire household is rarely fun! Having less stuff to pack makes things easier, and decluttering has the added bonus of making your new home more organised and welcoming. But what should you leave behind and what should you take with you? Trying to decide can be overwhelming.
To help you with the decision-making, we’ve pulled together a comprehensive guide on what to leave behind when moving house, as well as addressing what you should definitely take or dispose of.
What To Leave Behind When Moving House
- Fixtures and Fittings
- Old Appliances and Furniture
- Blinds and Curtains
- Outdoor Plants
- Excess Household Items
Fixtures and Fittings
When selling a house or moving out of a rental property in Australia, you are required to leave fixtures and fittings behind. These can include built-in appliances like a plumbed-in dishwasher, light fixtures, curtain rods, and carpets. Appliances that are not permanently plumbed in – such as fridges, washing machines or countertop dishwashers, can be removed.
If there are things you specifically want to take with you after selling your home, they should be spelled out in the contract of sale. If uncertain, check with your sales agent – sometimes these things can be negotiated with the purchaser.
Old Appliances and Furniture
Moving is the perfect time to get rid of appliances or furniture that is worn out or does not fit into your new space. Measure the space available in your new home, and only take things that will comfortably slot in. If you have appliances or furniture that don’t suit your new home, you can donate them, sell them on Facebook marketplace, or arrange disposal through your local council.
Bonus tip: If you are ordering new furniture or appliances, arrange to have them delivered to your new home a day or two after you move, so you don’t need to pack and transport them.
Blinds and Curtains
Fixed window coverings are usually considered house fixtures, and need to stay behind when moving house. These include fitted blinds or louvres, and outdoor awnings. Non-fitted coverings such as curtains can be taken away. However, you’ll want to check whether they will fit the windows in your new abode. If not, consider donating or selling them.
Outdoor Plants
You’ll generally need to leave planted vegetation behind. It may not thrive if dug up and planted in a different environment. In addition, the new house owners will expect plants to remain, unless you’ve specified otherwise. Very large or heavy potted plants may be left behind if they form part of the landscaping.
Smaller potted plants can be removed if you have an appropriate space that suits their growing needs. If moving to a space with a smaller or no garden, this is also a good time to declutter any gardening equipment or tools that you’ll no longer need.
Excess Household Items
We all accumulate things we don’t need over the years. Moving is a great time to declutter items such as clothing, linen, electric devices and cables, books, ornaments and paperwork. Decluttering before you move means much less work packing, unpacking and organising your new home, so it’s great to leave time for this task.
For decluttering tips, read our blog on how to declutter before moving house
What Should You NOT leave Behind When Moving House?
Toxic Materials and Chemicals
Don’t leave behind paint tins, gardening chemicals, cleaning products or other toxic substances, as these can be hazardous to both the new occupants and the environment. Instead, take them to a local facility that handles hazardous waste, to ensure they are disposed of safely.
Broken Appliances or Furniture
It may be tempting to leave behind a washing machine that’s no longer working properly, but it’s poor form to shift the problem of disposal to the new tenants! It’s also not a good idea to dump things you don’t wish to take on your nature strip – you can be fined for doing this. Before you move, be sure to arrange for disposal or collection of broken appliances, furniture and outdoor equipment through your local council.
In Summary
By thinking carefully about what you should leave behind when moving house, you can make the whole process more efficient, and enjoy a decluttered environment in your new home. Get started early with decluttering, donating and disposing of excess items responsibly, and enjoy your fresh new start!
Got more questions about moving house? Visit our Moving House FAQs page to find all the answers.
Ready to make your move in Melbourne? Pinder Tower Movers are here to help you every step of the way. With over 40 years of experience, and a focus on delivering the best customer service, we’ll help ensure a smooth transition to your new home. Contact Pinder Tower Movers today for a stress-free moving experience!