Who do you need to notify when moving home?
Moving home is one of the classic stressful adult activities. There are so many different parts, from finding a new home to sorting out your new commute, that it’s almost inevitable that some parts of that plan fall through the cracks.
One important aspect that most of us end up forgetting about is the importance of notifying various people, organisations, businesses and government departments about the upcoming move. Let’s take a look at who you actually need to tell, to make your next move easier.
Start with the basics
Begin with the bodies that are the most important legally. You’ll need to update the relevant council, so that you can pay your council tax; you’ll also need to tell HMRC, if you’re paying your own taxes, and for a range of other government-related services like the DVLA.
You’ll also need to change your address with a range of banks and adjacent services, so that your statements and any other related documents actually come to the right address (despite the fact that most things are digital anyway nowadays).
Insurers
It’s important to inform any insurers that you’re using. The most obvious of these is your home insurance provider, but it’s equally important for vehicle insurance (connected to the DVLA and your V5C) and any health or device insurance policies you have. If you fail to update these parties, it can mean that your insurance will end up being invalid.
Moving services
You’ll also want to get any services you need to help you with the move locked in sooner rather than later. Tell a removals service like Bright Movers, ideally a month or more before the big day so that you can be sure they’ll have availability.
You might also want to inform other related services, such as deep cleaners, so that you can be certain that there won’t be any avoidable complications associated with the rest of your move.
Utilities providers
Your utilities providers won’t automatically know that you’ve moved – you’ll need to tell them. You’ll want to close down your old accounts, sending over pictures with final meter readings, so that you aren’t charged for anything that the new inhabitants use, while also taking pictures of your meter readings in your new house.
It’s worth booking in any internet services or installation assistance you need early on as well, especially if you have to work from home. Doing all of this well in advance will mean that you’re able to actually move into a house that’s ready for you and fully livable in, rather than a (hopefully warm) box without light, water or internet.
If you inform these main service providers and organisations, you should be largely covered for your home move. Of course, on the more social side of things, it’s also nice to tell neighbours and other people you’re somewhat close with in your neighbourhood – they may miss you, and it’s nice to have an opportunity to close that section of your life with a cup of tea and a few chats.
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