Completion day explained: what happens and what to do
When the money moves, when you get the keys and how to plan your removal around it.
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Completion is the day the sale is finalised. The buyer's solicitor sends the money, the seller's solicitor confirms receipt, and the keys are released. It is the earliest you can legally move in.
What happens
- Your solicitor confirms funds are ready.
- Money is sent through the chain.
- The seller's solicitor confirms receipt and tells the agent to release the keys.
- You can collect keys and move in.
What time are keys released?
There is no fixed time. Many completions finish around midday, but chains can delay keys to late afternoon. Do not plan on a 9am key release. Ask your solicitor which time is realistic.
Plan your removal around it
- Book a flexible window and tell the company that completion times can move.
- Ask the company what happens if keys are delayed: waiting time, rebooking or storage.
- Consider an early load from your old home and an afternoon unload.
- Keep an overnight bag in case the day ends with the keys still not in hand.
If completion is delayed
- Ask your solicitor why and for a realistic new time.
- Tell the removal company as soon as you know.
- If you must leave your old home, ask about short-term removals and storage.
- Check your tenancy end date or sale terms for how long you can stay.
On the day
Be reachable by phone, keep ID with you and have a first-night box ready. Read the moving day timeline and compare removal quotes that suit a flexible start.
Frequently asked questions
What time do you get the keys on completion day?
There is no set time. It is often around midday but can be later depending on the chain.
Can I move my furniture in before completion?
No. You have no legal right to the property until completion.
What if the keys are not released?
Contact your solicitor straight away, tell your removal company and consider storage or a short stay with friends.
Related guides
- Mortgage and moving: the timeline from offer to keys
- Moving day timeline: hour by hour
- Moving house after buying
Prices and rules in this guide are general guides and change over time. Check GOV.UK or a qualified adviser for your own situation.
What happens on completion day
Completion is the day the sale is finalised. The buyer's solicitor sends the money, the seller's solicitor confirms they have received it, and ownership passes. Only then can the agent release the keys. Everyone in the chain has a completion on the same day, so a delay at the start of the chain delays everyone else. Because of this, your moving time depends on things you cannot control.
A typical timeline
| Time | What happens |
|---|---|
| Morning | The buyer's mortgage lender releases funds to the buyer's solicitor, who sends them on through the chain. Sellers move out, and buyers wait for confirmation. |
| Around midday | Funds are often expected by lunchtime, and many contracts set a deadline for them. Sellers should be out by then. |
| Afternoon | Once the seller's solicitor confirms receipt, the agent releases the keys to the buyer. |
| After | The buyer moves in. The solicitor pays any tax, registers the change and settles the accounts. |
Times vary. If funds arrive after the deadline, completion can slip to the next working day, and a fee or interest may apply under the contract.
What to plan for
- Tell your removal company the keys may be late. A flexible company will wait or reschedule.
- Be ready to leave by the agreed time. If you are the seller, the contract says when you must vacate.
- Have a plan for the gap. Storage, a friend's place or a hotel can help if you are delayed. See removals and storage.
- Keep your phone charged and answer calls from your solicitor and the agent.
- Take readings and photos at both homes.
Reduce the risk
- Choose a weekday that is not the end of the month, if you can.
- Ask your solicitor to check the timeline of your chain.
- Confirm the funds are lined up and the mortgage offer is current.
- Agree a flexible arrangement with the removal company in advance.
See the mortgage and moving timeline, the moving day timeline and what a conveyancer does. This is general information, not legal advice.
Common questions
What time do I get the keys on completion day?
Usually after your solicitor confirms the money has been received, often around lunchtime or later.
What if completion is delayed?
Tell your removal company and your solicitor. Storage or a flexible booking can help, and the contract may set out the consequences of late completion.
Can I book removals before exchange?
You can compare quotes, but wait for a confirmed date before you pay a deposit, or choose a company that is flexible.
