1 MONTH BEFORE YOU MOVE
- Finalise your moving date,so you can start making firm bookings for removal and other related services.
- Appoint a professional and reputable removals company. Ask when and if they offer discounts, as many companies may charge extra for moving on public holidays or at weekends.
- For moving insurance, cleaning, or storage; check with your removals company, they may offer these services at a discount.
- Arrange to have your new house cleaned after the old owners move out, and before you move in. At least, get the carpets, walls, floors and inside cupboard cleaned. You may consider having the carpets shampooed and steam cleaned.
- Book carpet fitters if you are having new carpets laid. Visit the house with the carpet company to consult on style and colour.
- Get your car serviced and work out a travel route to the new house.
- If you need to, book overnight hotel accommodation. If the journey is a long one, you don’t want to arrive over-tired and over-stressed. Many hotel chains offer discount price promotions in less popular locations.
- Arrange for childcare and petcare on moving day. Friends and family are best called upon.
- Send out ‘Change of Address’ cards to friends, family and relevant companies.
When you move house, you need to inform a number of organisations of your new address. Incorrect address details can invalidate contracts, for example, your home insurance policy. Here is a list of organisations you may need to send details of your new address.
- Banks and Building Societies: avoid complications by letting them know well in advance.
- Doctors/Dentists/Medical Practitioners: you may need medical care and your new doctor will need access to your records.
- Churches/Religious Organisations: it’s just polite.
- Insurance Providers: essential, as policies may become invalid if you do not supply a correct and current address.
- Schools: inform your child’s school of your move, and arrange for records to be transferred.
- Solicitor: particularly if you have set out your will in writing and very important if you have willed property.
- Magazine Subscriptions: make sure you get your magazines delivered to your new address, or someone else will be reading and enjoying them!
- Post Office: you can set up a re-direct service so that any post addressed to your old address can be re-routed to your new one.
- Inland Revenue: Inform the taxman as soon as possible.
- Utilities: take up-to-date meter readings and let them know you will be moving. (Take meter readings at your new house when you arrive)
- TV Licencing: update your TV licence address as soon as possible.
- Vet: find a vet in your new area and let them know your address (just in case). If you’re only moving a short distance, notify your current vet of your new address.
- Vehicle Licencing: they will need to update your driving licence and vehicle registration details.
- Passport Office: your passport may require updating, so put your change of address in writing.
- Start packing non-essential items and clothing. By starting early you can pack possessions systemically and ensure you fit as much as you can in a box. Less boxes = less volume = less cost.
- Start depleting freezer compartments and use everything up before the move.
- Clear out the loft or attic. Borrow a high powered light and search all the corners. Check for hidden cables.
- Find out about new school dress codes and order uniforms.
- Find out about children’s groups in your new area and get your children involved in cubs, scouts, brownies and girl guides.
- If you’d like a locksmith to change locks at your new house, arrange for them to meet you there on moving day.