Removal is a complex process that includes planning, packing, moving items, then unpacking, getting to know your neighbourhood and your neighbours, etc. It is essential to have a house checklist to ensure all tasks are covered when moving. There is also an important task to complete once you decide to move: you need to let others know about your removal. Creating an organized change of address checklist will help prevent issues from surfacing later on. This is an important factor of every move because if you do not do it on time, you might have certain problems, like misplaced mail if the post office isn’t notified about your new address. Therefore, find time to complete this task and let others know that you are moving house.
Notify your utility providers of your change of address
You are obligated to notify your utility providers about your removal. If you want to have power, cable or phone service at your new place, you have to contact the providers and let them know that you are switching everything to a new home. Make sure you include your internet company as well, so your broadband is set up on your moving date. You can do this over the phone or in person but you should opt for phone because it is more efficient and lot faster. Remember to take final meter readings at your old address, so you aren’t billed for utilities after your move. Additionally, inform your utility providers of the exact date of your move to ensure a smooth transition and avoid being charged for services after moving out.
Redirect your mail through the post office
Until you change your address with certain businesses and organizations, it is recommended that you provide new contact information to the post office. Using the Royal Mail redirection service can prevent missing postal subscriptions or bills from credit card companies and credit card providers. This will ensure that your mail arrives at your new place, not the former address. You can also update your address online, but it is probably a good idea to go in person in case they need some additional papers or other information.
Update your employer and banks
It is your duty to notify your employer about your removal. If you commute and have additional benefit for travel expenses, you have to keep traveling route updated. Updating your address with insurance providers is also essential to manage insurance costs, as premiums can vary based on your new postcode and risk assessment. This is also crucial if your job offers tuition fee reimbursement based on your local address. Also, you will make sure you receive important parpers like tax or insurance documents on time. If you are moving to another country, for example, and changing job, you will need to provide new address, but you cannot do that until you cancel your old one.
Banks
Banks, insurance companies, credit card companies, lenders, and other money-related organizations, including credit card providers, should have your new address in case they need to contact you or send you some delicate documentation. Updating your address can also impact your insurance costs, as premiums may vary based on your new location. Make sure to check your online bank account to update your contact address for notifications.
Contact healthcare and educational providers
Education and health service providers should be one of top priorities when notifying about your removal. Ensure your National Insurance number is up to date when informing various government bodies. Schools, medical insurance companies and other related individuals and organizations need to be informed about the change of your address. Update healthcare providers to make sure your medical records are transferred smoothly to your new location.
The government
As far the government is concerned, you need to update your voter registration information so that you are able to vote in your new district. If you do not do this, you will not be listed as a voter in your new place. Re-register on the electoral roll to avoid missing future elections. Also, the information on your driver’s licence must be updated. Check with your local car department because the laws concerning changing license vary by state or district. Don’t forget to update your vehicle registration and vehicle tax records with the vehicle licensing authority.
Additionally, ensure your driving licence is updated with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) during a change of address. This is essential for identification purposes and vehicle registration.
Finally, remember to update your TV licence information when moving to a new house. Notify the TV Licensing authority to ensure coverage begins on the day of the move, allowing changes to be made up to three months in advance.
Notify family, friends, and other services
Your friends and family probably know you are moving to a new property, but it is a good idea to provide them with a new address for emergency purposes or just when sending a Christmas card. Make sure you send them an email or a text message as soon as possible. Also, inform any subscription services you have to prevent packages from being sent to your wrong address.
Consider council tax and other essentials
One more thing that shouldn’t slip through the cracks is notifying your local authority about your council tax. A moving house checklist can be an invaluable tool to help manage this and other essential tasks. You’ll need to update your contact details and ensure the final council tax statement is accurate. Missing this could result in unexpected charges down the line.
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About the Author:
Kim Jacobs
Kim Jacobs is a removals coordinator with over 11 years of experience as part of the Get man and van team and other firms in the home and office relocation industry in London. Before joining our company, Kim has worked in various logistical and transportation companies and institutions such as Transport for London, The Removals Ombudsman, and has coordinated moving projects with some of the biggest suppliers of various goods such as IKEA, HomeBase, Amazon, Sainsbury's and others. While working as a chief removals coordinator, Kim also enjoys sharing her expertise with others through writing in our blog.
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