Moving Home Guide

Planning

There are many things to consider when moving house. If you’re moving a short distance and don’t have many possessions, then you may be able to do everything yourself and with a rented van. However if you are moving a longer distance with a lot of heavy/awkward furniture, then you may want to consider employing professional removers. Professional removers will pack all your possessions carefully. They also offer the option of insuring them against damage during the removal process. There are no such safeguards if you deal with the removal yourself. Either way, when packing up your possessions, mark each box clearly with some information on the contents – it can save you a great deal of time when you are unpacking and will ensure that the correct boxes are placed in the correct room in your new property.

Checklist

Have you arranged home insurance for the day you move in?
Have you registered with electricity and/or gas companies?
Have you arranged a TV licence?
Have you advised all relevant people/organisations of your new address in advance?

Considerations — Do's

Check with your Solicitor before meeting directly with the sellers.
Check with the sellers on their actual moving date.
Check with your solicitor before agreeing to purchase any items from the seller as they may already be included in the agreed contract.
Arrange for the removal of your possessions giving as much notice as possible.
Inform the removal company of any restrictions at the new property.

Considerations — Don'ts

Agree a new entry date without informing your Solicitor as all the financial arrangements are being geared to that date. With adequate warning, both parties agreement and subject to the re-arrangement of your mortgage application a change of entry date should be possible.
Forget to adequately insure your possessions during the removal process.