Guide to Moving House: What to Do, Who to Contact & Top Tips

Moving house is often deemed one of life’s most stressful experiences. From selling your old home to finding a new one, packing up your belongings, and settling into your new house, the process can be overwhelming. Fortunately, with careful planning and preparation, you can make the transition much smoother and as stress-free as possible. In this guide, we’ll explore the timeline for moving, tips for selling your home, the crucial contacts you need to inform about your move, and key tasks to accomplish when relocating.

How Long Does it Take to Move House?

The time it takes to move house varies greatly depending on individual circumstances. Generally, the process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. It can take longer if you’re selling your current home or if you have specific requirements for your new home. It really helps to plan ahead, set a realistic timeline, and be prepared for potential delays, such as longer-than-expected negotiations or unforeseen issues with property surveys.

Tips for Selling Your Home

When it comes to selling your home, you want to make the best impression on potential buyers. Here are some top tips to consider making your home look more appealing on the market:

• Declutter and Depersonalise: Clear out any unnecessary items and remove personal touches like family photos. This helps buyers envision themselves in the space by providing them with a blank canvas.

• Repair and Clean: Address any maintenance issues, like leaky taps or peeling paint, and give your home a thorough cleaning. A fresh coat of paint in neutral colours can make a significant difference.

• Stage Your Home: Consider hiring a professional stager or using your furniture to create an inviting, aesthetically pleasing space.

• Price it Right: Research local property prices and work with an experienced estate agent to determine the best price for your home.

• Be Flexible with Viewings: Be prepared to show your home at various times, including weekends and evenings, to accommodate interested buyers.

Who to Inform When Moving House

When moving house, you’ll need to notify several parties about your change of address:

• Energy and Water Providers: Contact your gas, water, and electricity providers to transfer or close your accounts.

• Government Agencies: Notify agencies like the the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) so they have your most up-to-date contact information.

• Bank and Credit Card Companies: Inform your bank, credit card companies, and any lenders of your new address.

• Employer: Notify your employer and any professional organisations of your new contact information.

• Friends and Family: Let your friends, family, and neighbours know about your move so that they know how to get in touch with you.

What to Do When Moving House

To make sure you don’t miss any key steps during your house move, let’s go over what you need to do when moving house:

Contact Utility Suppliers

As soon as you have a move-in date, contact your utility suppliers to set up or transfer services. Ensure that you have gas, electricity, and water services ready when you move in. Don’t forget to arrange for internet services as well.

Arrange for Movers and Packaging Materials

Book a professional moving company well in advance, especially if you’re moving during peak times like summer or weekends. Alternatively, you can rent a moving truck and enlist the help of friends or family. Gather packing supplies like boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape.

Change Your Mailing Address

Update your address with the Royal Mail, either online or in-person at your local post office. This ensures that your mail will be forwarded to your new home.

Check Your Home Insurance

Contact your home insurance provider to transfer your policy to your new home. If you’re moving to a different area, your policy premiums may change based on factors like local crime rates or natural disaster risks.

Storage Facilities Can Help Make Moving House Easier & More Efficient

If you have excess items that won’t fit into your new home or need temporary storage during the moving process, consider renting a storage unit. Storage facilities like ours at Boxx Storage, are secure spaces where you can keep your belongings until you’re ready to move them into your new home.

Moving house can be a daunting task, but with proper planning and organisation, you can make the process more manageable. Use this guide as a starting point, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed. Remember to take it one step at a time and celebrate your successful move into your new home.