CHECK LIST FOR MOVING HOUSE IN THE UK — FACT FILE

A short list of helpful hints for those who are renting or buying

If you are moving out of a property:

1)Make sure you arrange to have your mail redirected. Pick up the special form from the Post Office.

2)Pay all outstanding home bills, such as milk, newspapers or window cleaner.

3)Don’t forget the gardener or domestic help if you have them.

4)On the day of the move make arrangements for young children – it may be best to organise a babysitter for the day.

5)Look after your pets by using proper pet-carrying boxes for them to travel in. The RSPCA sells low cost cardboard carrying cases for cats and puppies.

If you are moving into a property:

1)Check how everything works in your new home, especially the central heating boiler and alarm systems and where things like fuse boxes and stopcocks are.

2)Get the seller (if buying) to give you details about guarantees, contracts and instructions for appliances and fittings. (If you are renting ask the Landlord or agent for the relevant information).

3)Confirm the time that you can pick up your new keys. This is usually after 12.30 pm on the day of completion. Remember that most conveyancers don’t work Saturdays and they will also want to be able to check if the funds have been satisfactorily transferred.

4)Arrange a time with the previous owners when you can move in – you don’t want to arrive before they’ve moved out!

5)If you are moving into rented accommodation check the move in details with the Landlord or letting agent. It is quite normal to be met at the property by a representative from an inventory company who will check you and take meter readings and release the keys to you.

6)Send out your change of address cards. Why not combine them into invitations for a housewarming party!

People you should remember to tell that you are moving:

Building society and/or bank

Books & magazines subscriptions

Credit Card companies

Clubs and associations

Doctors, dentists and opticians

DVLC for driving licences

Electricity, gas and water companies

Friends and relatives

Hire Purchase companies

Insurance companies

Inland Revenue Tax Office

Local authority for council tax (or local equivalent)

Motoring organisations (AA / RAC etc)

National savings / Premium Bonds

Oil / Propane gas suppliers

Post Office for re-direction of mail

Professional associations and trade unions

Rental companies

Satellite TV subscriptions

Schools, colleges and universities

Telephone companies

TV licence authorities

Your employers

The above has been compiled to assist people with UK property terminology. We advise that this information is for guidance only and cannot be relied on for accuracy and that you should consult a qualified legal representative if you require full explanation. © jml Property Services June 2005

CHECK LIST FOR MOVING HOUSE IN THE UK — FACT FILE

FURTHER READING See also

FURTHER READING See also

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