How to prepare when moving home

The key to avoiding stress when moving home is all about how prepared you are, the more notice you have, the better. Make sure you plan your house move properly and you won’t be pulling your hair out on the day (hopefully). Here are some simply steps to remember to think about when you’re moving home that will help you keep stress-free and make the whole process as smooth as possible.

Countdown

The following information will help you focus on what needs to be done and when.

1 Month – Plenty of time

·         Notify your landlord with a written letter of notice (if applicable).

·         Book the time off work, even if it’s a weekend, give yourself plenty of time to unpack and settle in.

·         Inform your phone line company (such as BT) that you are moving and organise reconnection/installation of a line.

·         Contact utility companies with the date that you will be moving into the new property.

·         Order packing materials.

·         De-clutter and clean.

2 Weeks – it’s getting closer!

·         Contact appropriate people of you change of address and arrange paperwork (Do not send until you have moved).

·         Arrange with the post office to forward your mail to your new address on the date of the move.

·         Book your Removal Company or a van.

·         Decide if you want to pay extra and have a professional packing team pack your boxes for you.

·         Arrange for someone to look after your children and any pets.

·         Start to think (if you haven’t already) about what rooms will be used for what.

·         Start packing any non-essential items.

·         If you’re moving into a smaller property then you may want to consider Storage.

·         If you’re moving into a larger property then think about if you need new furniture – order them now and arrange delivery for the day you move in.

1 Week – Any time now!

·         De-register with you doctor/optician if you’re moving to a different area.

·         Finalise arrangements with your removal company, confirming arrival times and your address for collection and delivery.

·         Arrange with the estate when you can collect the keys for your new home.

·         Notify the bank of any changes of direct debits and standing orders.

·         Remember that you are going to have to defrost your fridge/freezer so don’t do a big shop as you may end up wasting food.

The day before the Move –Already?!

·         If you’re having you goods packed for you then confirm details with your removal company.

·         If you are packing yourself then label boxes and finalise packing, take into consideration what you might need on the day of the move and avoid packing these until last.

·         Defrost your fridge/freezer.

·         Finish cleaning the house.

The Big Day!

·         Disconnect any remaining appliances.

·         Check every room to make sure nothing is left and everything is clean.

·         Close and lock all windows and doors.

·         When you arrive at your new house, make sure all containers have been delivered and are not damaged.

·         Finally sit down and relax.