By “It’s a good idea to plan ahead."
When organising a house move it sometimes feels there are a million and one tasks to do but with a bit of forward thinking you can reduce the job into manageable chunks. Planning ahead is the key – working out whom you need to notify and whom you need to contact for any other services.
1. Removal Firm – Contact removal firms, get quotes and ensure they have availability on the day you want. A full list of approved removal firms is available from the British Association of removals.
2. Schools and School Buses – Write to your new local authority for an information pack about schools in the area.
Notify the current school’s head teacher of your child’s leaving date.
3. Doctors, Dentists and Opticians – If you are changing area, research new practices to join and let your current
GP know you are moving. Liaise with your hospital if you are undergoing regular treatment.
4. Declutter – Start cleaning out cupboards and the loft or basement. Sort out rubbish. Sell unused items for
Example on eBay, or give them away to a charity shop. Don’t wait until after the move!
5. Packing – If you are planning to do this yourself, begin at least two weeks before you move. Naturally, start with things that you will not need access to. Label boxes with the details of their contents (try to be specific) and the room in which they are to be placed at the new address. Pack heavy objects with the lighter ones: do not overstrain boxes or backs.
6. Bank – Notify your bank of your change of address and consider transferring your account to a branch closer to your new home. Don’t forget any items that are retained by the bank for safe keeping.
7. Credit/Store Cards – Fill in the change of address section of your statement when returning it with your payment and also notify any card protection insurers that you may have.
8. Council Tax - Notify relevant authorities in both your current area and the area to which you are moving.
9. Inland Revenue – You must notify your local tax office when you move house.
10. House Insurance/Other Insurance – As well as notifying them of a change of address find out whether your current home insurance policy covers your possessions during the move and whether your change of address means a change in premium. Also, make sure you have the right buildings cover on your new home.
11. Driving Licence – Complete Section 1 on your licence and return it to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BN.
12. Motor Vehicle Licence – Send the appropriate section of your Vehicle Licence.
13. Change of Address – Begin to notify people of your change of address. There is no need to buy expensive moving home cards.
14. Electricity and Gas – Contact your existing company to advise them of your changes. Give at least 48 hours notice for your meters to be read. Electricity supply is now competitive: shop around to get a better deal for your utilities.
15. Meters – Make sure you take your readings of gas, electricity and water meters (if applicable) at both old and new home.