Things to remember when moving house
1 month to go
- Finalise moving date
- Make removal arrangements
- Post change of address cards
- Collect boxes, newspapers and packing materials
- Notify the Landlord if applicable
- Take final meter readings
- Arrange utility services for new home
- Book time off work
- Dispose of unwanted bric-a-brac or give to charity
- Transfer club memberships
- Advice your doctor if you need a repeat prescription before you move
- Arrange for registering with new doctor nearer to your home
- List belongings – take pictures of valuables
- Advise your bank about the change of address
- Check your insurance policy covers losses as a result of the move
Two weeks to go
- Tell the local authority about the change of address
- Advise Post Office to re-direct mail
- Pack non-essential items
- Arrange for children/pets to be supervised during the move
- Tag pets with details of your new address/contact details
One week before the move
- Pay Bills
- Cancel orders for the newsagent, milkman and window cleaner
- Check details with utility companies regarding supplies to your new home
- Give clear directions to your removal company for the new address
- Keep all moving-related documents together
- Complete packing
- Label boxes with the room they are to be deposited in the new home, their contents and if they are fragile e.g. kitchen – Glassware - FRAGILE
- Advise neighbours where you are going
- Return any items out on hire e.g. videos
One day before the move
- Pack essentials for travelling and a survival kit for the first hours in your new home (food, drink, warm clothing, kettle, toilet paper, torch, light bulbs and cleaning materials)
- Defrost fridge/freezer
- Clean the house for the new owners
Moving day
- Collect keys for the new home
- Give the removal men your new address and a contact number
- Disconnect any remaining appliances
- Double check that nothing is left in the house
- Lock all doors and windows
- Leave a note for the new owners advising them about security alarms, gas, water, electricity mains, and stop taps etc.
In your new home
- Check electricity, gas and water supplies; contact the relevant suppliers if not switched on
- Do the essentials such as cleaning and making the beds
- Place pets in a quiet place and try and keep cats in for several days until familiar with their new surroundings
- Ensure you have a valid TV licence
- Renew your driver’s license
- Revise your Will and inheritance tax planning arrangements if appropriate
