An Expert Guide To Moving Home
This expert guide to moving home aims to alleviate the stress associated with relocating, providing a comprehensive plan to navigate through the challenges of moving. Whether you’re confirming your moving date, decluttering your current space, or making essential preparations for moving day, this guide offers valuable insights to ensure a smooth transition. Authored by Elizabeth White, a residential property solicitor and Director of Nantes and Molly Miles – assistant to solicitors, based in the Dorchester office, this guide not only assists in organising the logistics of your move but also emphasises post-move considerations. From notifying relevant organisations to conducting thorough checks in your new home, this guide is an invaluable resource to help you relax and enjoy your new living space. If you’re in need of a reliable conveyancing solicitor, Elizabeth White is available for a no-obligation quote, ready to provide her expertise and support throughout your moving journey.
Before you move
Confirmation of moving date
Once you have exchanged contracts and your moving date has been confirmed you can arrange your removals and you should do so as early as possible. You may want to book some time off work to allow you to get organised for the move and to allow time to unpack and settle into your new home.
If you are in a rented property and you have exchanged contracts this now is the time to give your landlord notice. It can be useful to keep your rental property for a couple of weeks after your moving date if you intend to carry out any renovation works, or if you’d like to move in gradually.
Opportunity to de-clutter
Before you move is a good time to have a clear out. Throwing out items which you no longer need can help streamline the packing process. It is important to note that all loft, garage and shed spaces must be clear of belongings and rubbish on the day of completion.
You may also want to consider what furniture you will bring to your new property. Then arrange for any unwanted items to be disposed of or donated to charity.
When you have cleared out unwanted items, start packing your belongings into boxes. It is best to do this methodically. For ease, label each box and make a note of its contents so you know exactly where to find everything when you are unpacking.
Contact the appropriate companies to let them know you are moving
Notify the following organisations and companies of your moving date and new address.
- Any utilities companies
- Your employer
- Schools (if applicable)
- Bank, insurance, pension, credit card companies
- Council, electoral roll
- TV Licensing
- Doctor and dentist
- DVLA
- Post Redirection (the Post Office offer a service to redirect your post to your new property for a small fee)
Payment of outstanding bills
Before you move make sure that you have paid all relevant bills and council tax relating to your property to avoid companies chasing you for payment.
Essentials for moving day
Ensure that your important documents, such as passports and mortgage paperwork are easily accessible. It can also be useful to keep a phone charger handy as you will need to speak to your solicitor on the day of completion.
Pack an overnight bag containing your essentials for the first night in your new home.
Note: ensure that you collect all spare keys from friends and family and drop them off to your estate agent in time for completion.
On moving day
Final checks of your property before you move out:
- The property must be left clean and tidy, ensure the garden and sheds (if applicable) are completely clear of all items including rubbish.
- Double check everything is switched off. Ensure that any dishwashers or washing machines are disconnected correctly.
- Ensure windows and doors are locked. Upon completion you must ensure you leave one full set of keys with the estate agents.
- Read the electricity and gas meters and advise the appropriate companies of those readings. It may be helpful to take photographs of the readings on your mobile phone device in case of any future queries.
Checks upon moving into your new property:
- Ensure you have keys to all doors, windows, and cupboards.
- Check and submit the metre readings at the new property to ensure you will not be charged for power you’ve not used.
- Check utilities are up and running.
You don’t want to be caught out if you have a leak and do not know how to turn off the water, so ensure you know where the following are:
- Stopcock
- Gas and electricity meters
- Thermostat
- Fuse box
After you’ve moved
- Check your new home carefully for leaks or damage that you were not expecting.
- Check that all taps, plugs and the boiler are working correctly.
Now you can relax and enjoy your new home!
Moving house can be stressful, and this checklist should help you ensure your move is as smooth as possible. If you are moving house and need a dependable, knowledgeable, and helpful conveyancing solicitor please contact us for a no-obligation quote. Please feel free to contact Nantes should you require any legal advice in relation to any property matters.
