You have confirmed that you are moving home so do not hang about in preparing a carefully thought out plan of action. 
This will enable your move to go smoothly and avoid any pitfalls and the stress that usually go with a house move.
Here we begin our planned move from six weeks in advance or as soon as you have a date for moving.
Confirm the move date
- Once you know the date you are moving get some quotes from several removal companies. Check out their references and customer reviews online and ensure their insurance covers all aspects of the move.
- If it is your intention to carry out the move on a DIY basis make sure you contact friends and sign them up to help you.
- If you are currently renting your property, contact your landlord and inform him of the date you are moving.
- Make a check of your home insurance. Arrange with your insurers that your new house is fully insured from the day you move in.
- If you are to require any storage facilities now is the time to book it.
- Now is the time to inform utility companies of your moving day.
- Begin to get rid of those possessions you no longer require. Sell or give them to family and friends. Charity shops will also welcome donations.
- It may be you are intending to have new carpets and new furniture items. This is the time to order and arrange delivery for when you move in.
Two weeks before the move
- It is now time to finalise the arrangements with your removal company and make sure they have directions to your new home. If you are making a DIY move choose the vehicle you will be using and book it.
- Make a start on some packing. Begin with packing non-essential items like clothes you will not be wearing before and during the move, books and DVD’s etc.
- Go to your local post office and arrange for any mail to be forwarded to your new address. The cost for this is very reasonable and rates depend on how long you wish this service to continue.
- You need to de-register from your medical practice, dentist and opticians if you are moving out of the area, and if possible register with similar services at your new location.
- Now is the time to make arrangements for your children or any pets to be looked after during your move.
- Pay a visit to your news agents and inform them of the day you want deliveries to cease. Arrange the same with your milkman.
- Inform your bank of your move and your new address and any changes in direct debits and standing orders.
- Contact the estate agent and arrange a time to collect the keys for your new home.
- Finally make a list of all those who need to know about your change of address and send out e-cards.
The Check List
Although we have mentioned notifying certain people and organisations, we have compiled a comprehensive list here so nothing is left to chance.
| Services and utilities |
Tick |
Date |
| Water | ||
| Gas | ||
| Electricity | ||
| Telephone | ||
| Post office | ||
| Cable/satellite and internet service provider | ||
| TV licensing | ||
| Financial | ||
| Banks | ||
| Building society | ||
| Credit and debit card companies | ||
| Council tax department | ||
| National savings and premium bonds | ||
| Employers | ||
| Insurance companies | ||
| Pension company | ||
| HMRC | ||
| Social security | ||
| Solicitor | ||
| Motoring | ||
| DVLA | ||
| Breakdown recovery company | ||
| Vehicle insurance | ||
| Vehicle registration | ||
| Others | ||
| Friends and relatives | ||
| Milk delivery | ||
| Newsagents | ||
| Schools/colleges | ||
| Library | ||
| Gym or sports club |