Failing to plan is planning to fail...
Yes, we've all heard that one before, but in the case of moving home it's all too true. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying a new home and forget about the basics.
When you’re due to move there always seems like an endless list of things to do, people to inform, boxes to pack and things to organise, so here’s a helpful guide to make sure you don’t forget anything…
4 weeks before…
- complete a change of address form at the Post Office to re-route mail (www.royalmail.com)
- inform magazine subscriptions and clubs of your new address and moving date
- decide which items you’re keeping and which you can chuck or donate to charity
- notify water, gas and electricity suppliers to have your services turned off at your present address
- arrange for utility connections at your new home
- contact your new local authority about schools and colleges in the area
- notify schools, churches etc of your impending move
- notify your own and research alternative doctors, dentists in your area and liaise with your hospital if you’re undergoing any regular treatment
- check parking arrangements at your new home and apply for permits if necessary
- get to know your new area and work out the best routes to work and school. Check out www.upmystreet.com to find out more
- book removals company or arrange help from friends, van rental etc
3 weeks before…
- Request packing materials from your removals company, or buy some if you’re doing it yourself
- return things you’ve borrowed from friends
- start to run down the contents of your freezer
- arrange to transfer home insurance, or set up new policies to begin the day you move in. Arrange transit insurance if necessary
- research car boot sales to get rid of stuff you’re not taking with you
2 weeks before…
- discontinue regular services such as newspapers, window cleaners etc
- arrange to have your satellite dish moved to your new property if necessary
- arrange to discontinue your phone service and broadband and have it installed at your new address
- arrange to transfer your TV licence to your new address (www.tvlicensing.co.uk/moving)
- complete the relevant section on your car registration document and licence and send them to the DVLA (more info at www.dvla.gov.uk)
- call your vehicle insurance to keep cover valid. The price may change due to the new area, new parking arrangements and type of home you’re moving into
1 week before…
- arrange to transfer bank and savings accounts
- tell credit and store card companies your new address
- finish up your frozen food supply or give it away
- pack!
- find and label keys
- send out change of address cards, text messages and Facebook or MySpace alerts
- notify relevant authorities in your old and new areas regarding council tax and electoral registration
1 day before…
- defrost and thoroughly clean the fridge and freezer
- take down pictures, mirrors, non-essential curtains and blinds
- disconnect your cooker, washing machine and dishwasher
- confirm minders for children and pets
On moving day…
- make sure you personally take cash and jewellery with you
- lock all windows and doors when you leave
People to tell
Friends and family |
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