Moving house is a stressful experience, especially if you’re moving a long way or have a large family and a lot of belongings. Getting everything done in plenty of time will make sure everything goes smoothly and successfully. To help you, we’ve put together the following advice.

 

One month to go…

• It’s time to plan your moving date. If you can, avoid moving during peak times like bank holidays – that way you’ll have a better chance of negotiating a discount with your removal firm.

• Hire a reputable removal firm and see if they offer other services like insurance and storage.

• If you’ve ordered the Strathclyde Homes Carpets Package, then relax – we’ll take care of all the arrangements for you. However, if you are having your own carpets fitted, plan ahead for this now.

• Make your travel plans for the moving day, especially if they involve long distances, public transport or hotel accommodation.

• Notify your landlord if you’re moving out of rented accommodation.

• Contact your telephone company to arrange for reconnection / installation of a new phone line.

• Inform your Gas and Electricity suppliers that you will be moving to a new property and arrange for the meters to be read. You should arrange a convenient date to be connected at your new property.

• Book any time you need off work.

• Start clearing out any unwanted clutter – don’t move anything more than you have to.

Two weeks to go…

• Now is the time to send out change of address cards. As a useful reminder, we have included a checklist of the key people to inform in the following pages.

• Arrange redirection of your mail with the Post Office.

• Arrange for someone to look after children and pets during the move.

• Pack non-essential items and clothing but keep some clothes handy in case the weather changes suddenly.

 

One week to go…

• By now you will have been given your fixed entry date.

• Advise your independent carpet fitter (if using one) of your fixed date of entry. You will need to arrange a suitable time for your carpets to be fitted once legal settlement has taken place.

• Arrange for final bills to be paid.

• Cancel services such as newspapers, milkman, window cleaner etc.

• Confirm arrangements with the utility companies.

• Check the removal company have directions for the new address and your mobile telephone number.

• Put important documents such as passports and drivers licenses in a safe place. It’s a good idea to keep all moving-related documents together and at hand, such as in your Home Owner’s Pack.

• Finish packing. Make sure all boxes are properly labelled with the correct room and a guide to contents.

• Notify neighbours of your departure.

• Dispose of as much rubbish as you can in advance. If you need to, ask your neighbour if you can use their bins for any extra rubbish.

• If you live in a congested area, clear or reserve a parking spot for the removal van close to your house or flat.

• Contact your solicitor to ensure all funds are in place (mortgage etc) to allow the transaction to go ahead as planned.*

 

One day to go…

• Pack a “survival kit” to take along in the car if you’re travelling a long distance.

• Walk through the house to make sure everything has been accounted for - don’t forget the attic, basement and garage.

• Empty and defrost fridge/freezer so they are clear of ice on the day of the move.

• Make sure the house is clean for the new owners.

• Contact your solicitor to check everything is finalised for move in day.*