Most businesses budget for the obvious parts of an office move - the new rent, the movers, maybe a bit of decorating. But anyone who’s ever relocated a team in London knows the real expenses usually show up after you’ve committed to the move.
They’re the small line items you didn’t think to ask about, the services you assumed were included, or the last-minute jobs you can’t avoid once you hand back the keys. And while none of them are particularly dramatic on their own, together they can push your moving budget way past what you planned.
To help you dodge those surprises, here are the ten hidden or easily forgotten costs that catch London businesses out most often. Plus simple ways to stay in control from day one.
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1. Dilapidations and End-of-Lease Repairs
If you’re currently in a leased office, you’ll almost definitely face dilapidations.
This usually covers repairing damage, repainting walls, removing partitions or returning the space to its original condition. Even a small office can rack up a bill of a few thousand pounds - more if you’ve done any fit-out work.
How to avoid surprises:
Ask your current landlord for a preliminary dilapidations schedule early. It’s the quickest way to avoid a last-minute panic.
2. Professional Movers (and What's Not Included)
Most moving quotes look straightforward… until you realise what’s missing.
Extra charges can appear for:
- Packing services
- Dismantling desks
- Moving outside business hours
- Access issues (tight staircases, no parking, lifts not reserved)
Tip: Get a detailed, itemised quote and always ask whether weekend or evening moves cost more - many London buildings only allow moves out of hours.
3. IT Setup and Cabling
IT is one of the biggest overlooked costs. Even if you’re bringing your existing equipment, you may still need:
- New network cabling
- Additional Wi-Fi access points
- Server relocation
- Hardware upgrades
- On-site support on move day
Tip: Get your IT provider to assess the new space as early as possible. Internet installation alone can take weeks in some London buildings.
4. Temporary Storage
If your move dates don’t line up perfectly (they rarely do), storage costs can creep in.
Whether it’s storing furniture, equipment or documents, even a short-term storage unit in London can be pricey.
Tip: Ask your movers if they offer short-term storage. Bundled rates are often cheaper.
5. Cleaning - at Both Ends
You’ll likely need to deep clean your old office to meet lease requirements, and many new offices require a clean before moving in too, especially if you’re taking over a previously used space.
Tip: Don’t rely on a “standard clean.” Ask for confirmation of what’s required by your landlord.
6. Updating Stationery, Signage and Branding
It’s easy to forget how many places your old address appears. Updating everything can take time and money:
- Printed materials
- Business cards
- Client contracts
- Website footer
- Directory boards in the building
- Branded signage
Tip: Create a checklist of every address mention your team can think of. People always miss email signatures!
7. Insurance Adjustments
You may need to update or expand your office insurance to cover the new space. This can include public liability, contents, and sometimes additional building requirements.
Tip: Let your insurer know your move date early so you’re covered during the transition.
8. Furniture That Doesn’t Quite Fit
It happens all the time: you move into the new office and realise your old furniture doesn’t fit the layout - or simply doesn’t look right. Suddenly you’re buying new desks, breakout seating or storage units you didn’t budget for.
Tip: Ask for a floor plan from the landlord and check measurements before moving day.
9. Staff Costs During the Move
Even if you plan to keep the business running as normal, moves are disruptive.
Staff might lose a day (or more) of work helping pack, prep, travel between offices or wait for IT to get things running.
Tip: Plan a hybrid or WFH day for most of the team during the move to minimise downtime.
10. Small But Constant Setup Costs
These don’t sound like much at first - but they add up fast:
- New kettle, microwave or fridge
- Meeting room accessories
- Extra monitors or cables
- Plants
- Whiteboards
- Coffee supplies
- Replacement keys or access cards
Before you know it, you’ve spent £500-£1,000 on “bits and pieces.”
Tip: Give yourself a small contingency fund specifically for setup items.
Final Thoughts
Moving offices in London doesn’t have to mean blowing your budget, as long as you know what to expect. Planning for these costs early gives you more control, fewer surprises and a much smoother move overall.
If you're starting your office search or want help understanding the real cost of moving, Found curates vetted, up-to-date listings and can guide you through the whole process so you can move with confidence (and without the shock costs).
