Moving house can be both exciting and stressful. To make the process smoother, here’s a comprehensive checklist to ensure you don’t miss any important steps:
- Confirm Your Moving Date
Speak to Your Solicitor: Confirm your completion date to know when you can pick up the keys to your new home.
- Notify Your Landlord (If Renting)
Inform Your Landlord: Tell your landlord the exact date you’re leaving. Make sure not to give notice until you’ve exchanged contracts.
- Update Utility Providers
Gas, Electricity, and Water: Inform your providers about your move. If possible, take your current provider with you; otherwise, close your accounts. On moving day, take photos of the meters in both your old and new homes and provide these details to your energy provider to ensure accurate billing.
- Arrange Broadband Services
Current Provider: Notify your broadband provider about your move as early as possible. Switching services can take several weeks, so plan ahead.
- Inform the Local Council
Electoral Roll and Council Tax: Register at your new address and update your council tax information.
- Update Your Driving Licence
DVLA: Ensure your driving licence reflects your new address.
- Notify Insurance Providers
Home and Car Insurance: Update your home insurance or take out a new policy. Also, update other policies like car insurance.
- Register with Health Services
New GP: If moving to a different area, register with a new GP. Inform other health services such as your dentist and optician.
- Update Subscription Services
Online Subscriptions: Update your address on any online subscription services.
- Inform relevant family and friends about your new address.
- Redirect Your Post
Post Office Redirection: Sign up for the Post Office’s redirection service to ensure you don’t miss any important mail.
- Ask the Seller Important Questions
- Utilities and Appliances:
- Where are the gas and electricity meters?
- Who is the current energy provider?
- Where is the main stopcock (to shut off the water)?
- Where is the fuse box?
- Where is the thermostat?
- Do any appliances require specific instructions?
- What day are the bins collected?
- Do any surfaces require specific cleaning products?
- Book a Removal Company
If Necessary: Arrange for a removal company to help with the move.
By following this checklist, you can ensure a smoother transition to your new home. Happy moving!