Moving home - what should I think about?
Moving Home
Moving home - one or two months to go…
There are just three words you need to remember when moving: planning, planning, planning. A little careful thought early on could save you a great deal of time, effort and frustration later on.
- Ring around for quotes from removal firms and appoint one. Make sure they're properly insured and establish exactly what they're prepared to do. We can recommend reputable local removal and van hire firms.
- Order your packing materials. Remember, if you buy our great-value Multipacks, we'll deliver them to you free of charge.
- Start packing any non-essential items such as out-of-season clothing, together with your best china, glassware and ornaments. Clearly label all boxes.
- Clear out the loft. Pack as many items as you can from your garage and shed.
- Let everyone know that you're changing address.
- Arrange to have post re-directed to your new address - there's always someone you'll overlook when you send out your change-of-address notes!
- Keep all correspondence from your Estate Agent, your Solicitor and the removals company safely together for easy reference.
- Contact your insurance company to arrange transfer of your home and contents insurance on the move day. Your buildings insurance should already be in place on the day you move in.
Two weeks to go…
- Start running down food stocks in your freezer.
- Continue to pack any items you won't need before the move.
- Arrange for someone to look after your children and pets during the move.
- Contact the gas, electric, telephone and water companies to inform them of the impending move.
One week to go…
- Double-check the booking you've made with your removal firm.
- Keep your vacuum cleaner, dusters, polish, etc., unpacked for that last once-over.
- Cancel newspapers, milk and window cleaning and settle any bills you may have overlooked.
The day before…
- Prepare your moving day 'survival kit' containing a kettle, mugs, tea, coffee, milk, sugar, teaspoons, sandwiches, snacks, biscuits, crisps, fruit, washing-up liquid, tea towels and a hand towel (not forgetting the all-important toilet roll).
- Pack all your valuables such as jewellery together and carry them securely with you.
- Keep the file containing all valuable documents relating to the move with you at all times in case you need to refer to them.
- Advise the telephone company of the time you want your telephone disconnecting (or the number transferring, if you're keeping it).
- Defrost the freezer and fridge. If you intend to transport the freezer and its contents intact, put it on fast-freeze overnight.
- Make a list of useful telephone numbers for the new occupiers of your home, plus instructions for operating any appliances, central heating, etc.
- Make sure you have cash available for unforeseen circumstances.
- Telephone your insurance company to double-check that your new contents cover will be in force on the morning of the move.
The morning of the move…
- Telephone the gas and electric companies to give them your final meter readings.
- Try to stay calm - it'll all be over soon.
