To make sure your move goes as smoothly as possible, it is best to start planning weeks even months in advance. Moving can be a stressful and daunting time so making it as stress free as possible can only make the transition into your new home that much more enjoyable. Below are our top 15 things you should consider when preparing to move.
Utility Bills (Gas, Electricity, Water)
Let your current providers know you’re moving, and either give notice to cancel, or to switch over. Shopping around early will give you the opportunity to look around for a cheaper deal or possibly negotiate a better deal for staying with your current provider. A better deal can always be had and a simple phone call to you Gas or electricity provider can find yourself saving hundreds of pounds each year.
Divert Your Mail
Many companies will allow you to update your details online, to ensure your post is sent to your new address. However, for added peace of mind, the Post Office can provide a service which will automatically divert your mail for a small fee. Other services also do something similar and it’s been to look around first to see the cheapest service you can get.
Council Tax & Electoral Register
Call your local council and inform them you’re moving, so they can cancel your Council Tax payments and set them up for the new property if you are remaining in the local area. If not, you may need to contact the local council for your new property to set this up. While you have them on the phone, ask if they can update your details on the Electoral register too. Contact details will be on your council’s website.
Update Your Bills
You will need to inform your bank, credit cards companies, mobile phone / internet providers, and any other regular bills that you’ve changed address, to ensure they do not send any personal details to your old address after you have moved.
2. Inform Employers & Schools
Tell your employers, children’s schools, benefits office, doctors, dentists etc that your address is changing.
3. Cancel Deliveries & Services
Give notice to cancel deliveries and services such as milk, newspapers and window cleaners to ensure you do not pick up any charges after you have moved.
4. Switch Over Your Services
If you are looking to move your broadband, telephone and television packages with you to your new address, you will need to inform your provider. Please note we cannot give access to engineers to fit cables etc until you have completed on the property.
5. DVLA
You will need to contact the DVLA with details of your change of address, as your driving license and Vehicle Registration Certificate (VC5) will need to be updated. This can be done at: www.gov.uk/change-address-driving-licence
6. Price Up Removal Companies
If you are taking large, heavy items from your old property, you may need to hire a Removal Company. Looking early will allow you to compare prices, and possibly take advantage of discounts for booking in advance.
7. Plan What to Take
Moving home can be a great time to have a declutter. Be strict on what you need to take with you and sell, donate or bin what you do not.
9. TV License
You will need to purchase a Television License for your new property, or if you have one at your current address, you may wish to update your details. This can be done at: www.tvlicensing.co.uk/update
10. Give Notice to Landlord
If currently in rented accommodation, your will need to give your Landlord notice of your intention to move out. Most Landlords require a month’s notice but be sure to check the terms of your contract.
11. Book time off
Most completions occur on Fridays, so you may wish to book a few days off work to collect the keys and get the property in a suitable condition.
12. Book a Locksmith
When moving into a new property, a good idea is to get the locks changed for peace of mind. Be sure to book in advance for a reputable Locksmith to come out on or shortly after the completion date.
