Whilst usually one of the most exciting times in life, moving house can be both exciting and stressful, in equal measure. There are a whole host of things to do, boxes to tick, and critical pieces of paperwork that cannot be forgotten to ensure everything goes according to plan. From handling sensitive documents to organising removals, the process can easily become overwhelming and reduce moving to an outright chore rather than an exciting new chapter in life.
To help streamline the process and ensure nothing significant derails the process before the day arrives, the following steps are essential to take care of before it's time to pack the first box.
Confirm Your Completion Date
A surprising number of people jump the gun when it comes to moving day. One should never assume their moving date is locked in until contracts have been exchanged, and a solicitor has confirmed a legal completion date with both parties. Tentative moving dates can shift (sometimes more than once), and cancellation fees can quickly pile up and cause all kinds of issues, from booking movers to shutting off utilities. Making sure the final date is watertight is a crucial step to avoid unnecessary problems and ensure moves are completed at the right time.
Notify Utilities and Take Final Readings
Speaking of shutting off utilities, movers must get in touch with providers for everything from gas, electricity, water, and the internet, to let them know they’re moving. You should also finalise meter readings for the last day and provide a forwarding address for any closing bills. Set up accounts for the new property in advance, as some providers need several weeks’ notice, particularly if an engineer is required to inspect or refit a new meter, boiler, or router. On that note, when planning to keep the same internet supplier, take the time to ask if they can transfer the package to the new address and save time, rather than wait to set up a connection upon arrival. Other service providers may offer a similar solution.
Redirect Your Post
In some cases, it will require a whole month’s notice before a moving-in date to redirect any important mail. Waiting too long to do this can often result in sensitive and important documents being sent back to the previous address, which movers won’t want to risk. It’s simple and effective to set up mail redirection with Royal Mail, with options for 3, 6, or 12 months to redirect all correspondence and ensure no piece of postage goes unaccounted for during the time it takes to move house.
Update Details With the Local Authority, DVLA, and GP
Residents must update their address with their local council to ensure they receive the correct council tax bills and remain on the electoral roll. There is also a requirement to inform the DVLA for both updating the driver’s licence and vehicle logbook (V5C) or else risk facing a fine and potential points penalty. NHS services should also be updated, including GP details and any repeat prescriptions, dentist, or hospital referrals. Finding and registering with a new surgery and dental practice in advance is highly recommended due to possible waitlists that may cause delays between moving in and getting a first appointment.
Double-check the Inventory and Fixtures List
It doesn’t matter if one is buying or renting; you should review the agreed-upon list of what should be left in the property, particularly curtains, blinds, appliances, and garden tools. It’s common for residents to take (or leave) more than agreed, which can lead to disputes between parties. Raise any discrepancies with solicitors and/or property managers as soon as possible, and always take photos on moving-in day for records.
Book Removals Early — and Get Everything in Writing
Whether hiring a full removal service or just a man with a van, it pays to never leave booking a mover until the last minute. Good removal firms get booked up quickly, particularly around weekends and school holidays. Ask for a written quote, check what’s included (disassembly, wrapping, insurance), and clarify whether they charge extra for stairs or parking restrictions, etc. A good removal service can make the process of getting into a new place and settling in seamless, provided the right mover is booked at the right time.
Check Parking and Access for Both Addresses
When moving to a property with restricted parking or limited access, ensuring that proper permits and requests for access are made in advance is critical. Some councils require notice for visitor permits or loading bays and are known to issue hefty fines for failure to comply with these requirements. For flats or developments with gated entry, informing the concierge or management company of the moving day and date will save a lot of time. Checking road access is all the more important in the countryside, as fitting large removal vans down narrow or unmarked roads can be problematic, causing delays in moving in.
Keep Important Documents in One Place
Whether it be legal correspondence, removal contracts, utility details, passports, birth certificates or any other important paperwork a person may possess, these should never be packed together in the same place, let alone inside an inconspicuous moving box. Keeping important documents in a separate, easy-to-access folder or bag, and transporting them personally, is the safest way to navigate this potential pitfall. Documents related to the move will most likely be needed during the time, or at least in the first few days, and losing them could cause unnecessary and possibly catastrophic delays.
