In the excitement of buying a new home, it’s easy to forget about the small yet important tasks that ensure a smooth move.

Here’s a quick, helpful checklist of eight essential tasks to complete when preparing to move to your new home.

1. Banks

With paperless statements and online banking, it is easy to forget to inform them of your change of address.  Also, don’t forget about credit cards or store cards either! 

2. Council Tax

Make sure you settle your account with your current council and notify your new/current council of your new address as soon as possible. 

3. Electoral Roll

As soon as your contracts are exchanged, contact your local council to register on the electoral roll.  It is the law and is important for your credit rating as Credit Agencies use this to validate applications. 

4. Post Office

Get your post redirected to ensure you don’t miss any important information or sensitive data.  You can do this online at https://www.royalmail.com/personal/receiving-mail/redirection.  This will also give you more time to ensure you’ve updated every account or subscription. 

5. Healthcare

If you’re moving into a new area, then your local doctor or dentist could have a long waiting list – so don’t leave this until the last minute.  If you don’t need to change, then just be certain to inform them of your new address.  If you have pets, don’t forget to register them with a vet and get your address updated on their microchip.

6. Insurance

If you were previously renting, your landlord will have arranged your buildings insurance for you.  As a homeowner, it’s now up to you to arrange it for your new home.  You should also ensure your contents insurance covers your belongings in transit, as the removal van may only have limited cover. 

7. Utilities

Make sure to update your telephone and broadband service provider, to either close out your account or move these services over to your new address.  Plan installation of the internet in your new home well in advance, as the lead time for this is often several weeks.  Take a reading of any gas, electric, and water meters in your name at your previous home on the day you leave, and give those readings to the utility companies. 

8. Work and education

You’ll also need to notify your place of work, as certain information such as pensions and benefits may be registered to your previous address.  If you have a child in education, then make sure the school or nursery have your new address in case of emergency.