It’s often said that moving house is one of the most stressful experiences. So, it’s natural that some of the tasks you should tick off slip your mind.
According to a study covered in Metro, more than half of homebuyers say the process is even more stressful than they thought it was going to be. From worrying about a sale falling through to becoming stressed about the amount of admin required, there’s a lot that can make moving home taxing.
If you’ll be one of the thousands of families that will move this year, completing these seven tasks can make it that bit easier and help you to settle into your new home.
1. Update your GP and dentist details
While switching your details with utility providers is often a priority, doing the same for your medical practice and dentist can slip your mind. You may not realise it’s a step that’s been overlooked until you need to use a service, which can delay getting an appointment.
If you’ll be staying with the same provider, make sure your details, including address and phone number, are up to date. If you’ll be switching to a GP or dentist closer to your new home, register as soon as you can.
2. Review your insurance
If you’ll be taking out a mortgage to buy your home, it’s often a requirement that you take out adequate building insurance.
You will normally need to have insurance in place before the property transfers to you. In addition, contents insurance can provide you with peace of mind.
When buying a new home, you’ll often be taking on more financial responsibility. So, assessing if income protection, critical illness cover, or life insurance is right for you is also an important task.
Insurance policies can provide you or your family with financial security if something unexpected, such as needing to take time off work due to an illness, happens. We can help you with your financial protection needs and answer any questions you may have.
3. Set up a mail redirection
It’s easy to miss some accounts when you’re updating your address. Having your mail redirected when you first move can make sure you don’t miss important letters and serve as a reminder to update your details.
Royal Mail offers a redirection service that lasts for 3, 6 or 12 months so you don’t need to worry about missing mail.
It can also reduce the risk of fraud by helping to prevent your personal details from being seen by others. There is a cost to using the service, but it can be well worth it.
4. Take meter readings
To make sure that your utility bills are accurate and that you don’t overpay, taking meter readings before you leave your old home is essential.
Note down and submit readings for gas, electric, and water so that your final bill reflects your use. Taking a photo of the meters can also be useful in case there is any discrepancy.
Once you’ve received the keys to your new home, do the same to avoid paying for some of the last owner’s usage.
5. Update your driving licence
While updating your address for bills and other services, don’t forget about your vehicle and driver’s licence.
You can change the address on your driver’s licence for free online or by post. It’s easy to overlook but you could be fined up to £1,000 if you don’t notify DVLA of an address change.
You should also update the details on your vehicle registration certificate and tell your car insurer that you’ve moved.
6. Change your details on the electoral roll
Amid moving house, updating your details on the electoral roll can be missed until an election is around the corner, but it’s something you should do straight away.
You’ll need to register to vote when you change your address, even if you’re already registered at a different property. You can do this online or using a paper form.
Registering on the electoral roll can also improve your credit score, which can make borrowing more accessible and affordable in the future.
7. Pack an essentials box
Packing up your home and preparing to move can be stressful, and sometimes things don’t go to plan.
A delay in handing over the keys or signing contracts can mean you don’t arrive at your new home until much later than expected. Being prepared and having your essential items in one box that stays with you can make the process easier if this does happen.
Are you planning to buy a new home?
If you’re planning to purchase a new home, choosing the right mortgage for you is important. We’re here to help you understand the options and navigate the mortgage process.
If you have any questions or are ready to start applying for a mortgage, please contact us.
Please note: This blog is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other loans secured on it.
Note that financial protection typically has no cash in value at any time and cover will cease at the end of the term. If premiums stop, then cover will lapse.
