The Complete Moving Checklist for Nairobi
By , Thu Jul 30 2026
Moving within Nairobi involves more moving parts than people expect, deposits, movers, utility transfers, and the actual physical move. This checklist covers it in order.
Before you sign anything
- View the property in person, ideally during both daytime and evening, to check noise, water pressure, and lighting.
- Confirm the total move-in cost in writing: rent, deposit (usually one to two months), and any agency fee.
- Read the lease fully before signing, particularly the notice period, deposit refund conditions, and who covers which utilities.
- Confirm the listing and the landlord or agent are verified. See our post on how to avoid real estate fraud in Kenya before paying any deposit.
Two to three weeks before moving day
- Book a mover early. Verified movers on HaoLink's movers page are priced by distance, and availability tightens toward month-end when most Nairobi leases turn over.
- Start collecting boxes and packing non-essential items first.
- Notify your current landlord in writing according to your lease's notice period.
- Arrange internet installation at the new address ahead of time. Providers listed on our internet installation page can often schedule a set-up date before you arrive.
One week before
- Confirm your moving date and time with your mover in writing.
- Do a final walkthrough of your current unit and document its condition with photos, useful if there is any dispute over your deposit refund.
- Arrange for a cleaning provider at your old unit before handover, and optionally at your new one before you move in. Verified providers are listed on our cleaning services page.
Moving day
- Do a final check of every room, including cupboards, balconies, and storage areas, before the movers leave.
- Photograph your new unit's condition on arrival, before unpacking, in case anything needs to be raised with the new landlord.
- Confirm all keys, access cards, and remote controls (for gates or parking) have been handed over.
After you move in
- Register with your new estate's security or management office if applicable.
- Update your address with your bank, employer, and any subscriptions.
- Rate your movers and any other service providers you used, real ratings are what make HaoLink's Community showcase useful for the next person moving.
If you have not found your next place yet, start with HaoLink's rental listings, every one verified before it goes live.
Common questions
What should I do before signing a lease?
View the property in person during both daytime and evening, confirm the total move-in cost in writing, read the lease fully, and ensure the listing and landlord or agent are verified.
How early should I book a mover?
Book a mover early, ideally two to three weeks before moving day, as verified movers have tight availability toward month-end when leases in Nairobi usually turn over.
What should I do one week before moving day?
Confirm your moving date with your mover, do a final walkthrough of your current unit documenting its condition with photos, and arrange for a cleaning provider at your old unit before handover.
What should I check on moving day?
Do a final check of every room in your old unit before the movers leave, photograph your new unit's condition on arrival, and confirm all keys and access cards have been handed over.
What should I do after moving in?
Register with your new estate's security or management office, update your address with your bank and employer, and rate your movers and other service providers.