When it comes to moving into a new property, particularly one that’s newly built and has had no previous occupants, there are a number of things you need to consider to ensure a smooth transition. This article delves into the essential preparations needed, to help you make the move into your new home as seamless and stress-free as possible.
Preparing a Comprehensive Move Day Checklist
Before you dive headlong into the moving process, it’s important to create a comprehensive move day checklist. This list should detail all the tasks you need to complete on moving day.
Start by listing all the items that you will need to pack and move. This list should include large furniture items, appliances, and smaller items like decor and personal belongings. Remember to also include important documents and valuables.
Consider how you’ll transport your belongings. Depending on the volume of items, you may need to hire a professional moving company or you might be able to handle the move with a few helpers and a rented van.
Next, make a schedule for the day. This should include the time you plan to start moving, breaks for meals, and an estimated time for completion. Be sure to build in some extra time for unforeseen delays.
Updating Your Address and Insurance Details
One essential step in moving into a new property is updating your address with all relevant parties. This includes your bank, insurance company, utility providers, and even friends and family.
Don’t forget to update your insurance coverages as well. If you are moving to a larger property, you may need to increase your contents insurance to reflect the additional value of your belongings.
It is also a good idea to check whether your new property is in a different council tax band than your current home. The UK has eight different council tax bands (A-H), and the amount you pay will depend on the band your property falls into.
Checking and Preparing the New Property
Before moving in, take the time to thoroughly check the new property. Although it’s a newly built home, there might still be areas that need attention. Check all the utilities are working – water, electricity and gas. If the property has a central heating system, make sure it’s functional and efficient.
Check the security of the property as well. Are all doors and windows secure? Is there a burglar alarm system installed? If not, consider installing one.
Take note of the storage spaces available. If you’re moving from a larger house, you might need to downsize your belongings or invest in extra storage solutions.
Packing Essentials for the First Few Days
When packing your belongings, it’s important to keep a separate box or bag of essentials that you’ll need for the first few days in your new home. This should include items like toiletries, a change of clothes, basic cooking utensils and food items, and any important documents you might need.
Remember to also pack a basic toolkit for any small repairs or installations you need to do in the first few days. Don’t forget items like bin bags, toilet paper, and cleaning supplies – it’s often the most mundane items that get overlooked in a move!
Preparing for Potential Moving Day Issues
Even with the best planning, moving day can throw up unexpected issues. Be prepared for these and have a plan B in place.
For instance, if you’re hiring a moving company, confirm the booking a few days in advance. On the day of the move, make sure you have the company’s contact details handy in case there are any delays or issues.
If you’re moving a long distance, check the traffic and weather reports for the day of your move. Plan your route and have a backup route in mind.
Moving can be a stressful process, but with the right preparations, it doesn’t have to be. By following this guide, you will be well equipped to move into your new, unoccupied UK home with ease.
Taking Your Meter Readings
A crucial step to remember when moving into a newly built home in the UK is to take your meter readings. These readings provide the baseline for your utility bills in your new home.
On the day of your move, one of your first tasks should be to locate the gas, electricity and water meters. If you’re unsure where these are, your builder or estate agent should be able to guide you.
Once located, write down the readings on each meter. It’s a good idea to take a photo as well. These readings are important as they serve as a record of the state of utilities when you took over the property.
Next, it’s time to contact your utility providers. Inform them of the readings and the date of your move. You should also provide them your new address for future correspondence.
This process ensures you are charged accurately for your utilities and avoids paying for the usage prior to your move in.
Hiring a Professional Removal Company
When you’re moving house, especially into a newly built one, hiring a professional removal company is often a smart decision. These professionals can help ease the stress of moving day.
A removal company can provide a range of services beyond just transporting your goods. These may include packing, disassembling and reassembling furniture, and even storage solutions if your new home is not ready for all your belongings just yet.
Before hiring, do your due diligence. Seek out reviews and ask for recommendations. Get multiple quotes and make sure you understand what services are included in each quote. It’s always a good idea to have a representative from the removal company come to your current home to assess the volume of items to be moved. This will help them provide a more accurate quote and plan for the move day.
Remember to book your removal company well in advance. The best ones are often booked up weeks, if not months, in advance.
Conclusion
Moving into a newly built home in the UK is an exciting time. While the process can seem overwhelming, careful planning can make your moving day run smoothly.
By preparing a comprehensive house checklist, updating your address and insurance details, checking and preparing the new property, packing essentials for the first few days, preparing for potential moving issues, taking your meter readings, and hiring a professional removal company, you can ensure that your move is as hassle-free as possible.
Remember, the key to a successful move is preparation. With these tips in mind, you can look forward to settling into your new home in no time. Here’s to a successful moving day and the exciting new chapter in your life!
