Home mover’s checklist

Moving home is one of the most stressful things you can do, but working through our checklist should take some of the worry out of organising a move.

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Do’s and Dont’s

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check the contract if you use a removal firm. Be clear on exactly what the firm will do and what happens if anything gets damaged during the move.

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notify anyone of the change of address before the contracts are exchanged – if the move falls through you’ll have to notify everyone again.

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get several quotes for removal firms. Prices have increased since the pandemic so it’s a good idea to shop around for the best deal.

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leave things to the last minute. Taking down items such as wall lights, shelves, mirrors and pictures will be more time consuming than you expect.

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have a declutter and see if you can donate or sell any unwanted items. It will save you space in the removal van and you could also make a bit of extra money.

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pack your overnight clothes and toiletries or some other essentials. Items like a kettle, tea bags, coffee, milk, a screwdriver, loo rolls, and phone charger can be packed in separate case or box which you keep with you. Don’t forget important documents, cash, valuables and the keys to your new home.

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Arranging the move

• Book the removal firm if you’re using one.
  Give at least two weeks’ notice.

• Hire removal boxes or tea chests for packing.

• Arrange for the professional disconnection of any gas appliances you are taking.
  Give seven days’ notice.

• Arrange for the final readings of gas/electricity/water meters.
  Give 48 hours’ notice.

• Read the meter.
  On the day of the move take final readings for gas, electricity and water.

• Speak to your broadband and landline provider about your move
  See if you can transfer your exis­ting number to your new home

• Defrost the fridge/freezer. If you intend to move with a freezer filled with food, turn it up to maximum for a few days before the move.

• Arrange to have your mail redirected.
  Royal Mail will redirect your post automatically to your new home. The cost, per surname, is £36 for three months; £53 for six months; and £76 for a year.

• Check that your possessions are insured during the move.

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Who to notify

• The water company.

• Your gas supplier.

• Your electricity supplier.

• The phone and/or broadband provider

• Banks, building societies, credit card companies, store cards and loyalty cards.

• The Council Tax departments in the area where you live now and in the area you are moving to.

• Your home insurer.

• Your car insurer. Make sure you are covered at your new address.

• Your pension and life insurance providers, if appropriate.

• The TV licensing authority.

• The DVLA.
  To change the address on your driving licence.

• Your doctor, dentist and optician.

• Your employer.

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