Your comprehensive moving checklist: notify contacts, redirect mail, read meters, insure home, update accounts for a smooth house move.

As your moving day gets closer, you’ll likely start packing your essentials and preparing for the transition to your new home. It's important to notify relevant contacts about your change of address ahead of time. Whether this is your first move or you’ve relocated before, the following guide offers practical advice on key tasks to help your move go smoothly.

Notify others of your new address

There are many people and organisations you'll need to inform about your new home. We’ve created a checklist at the end of this article to help you remember all the important contacts.

Arrange mail redirection

To ensure you receive all your mail without interruption and protect your personal information, consider setting up mail redirection. This service is available online through official postal services.

  • Ensures you don’t miss important documents during the move
  • Helps protect your identity and personal information
  • Allows mail to be redirected to UK or overseas addresses for selected periods

Record final utility meter readings

Before leaving your current home, take meter readings for gas, water, and electricity. Notify your utility providers of these readings to avoid being charged for usage after you move out.

If you’re not tied into a fixed contract, this can be a good moment to review tariffs available in your new area.

Arrange insurance for your new home and possessions

Typically, buildings insurance is a mortgage requirement for your new home. It’s also advisable to ensure your moving service has suitable insurance covering any items during transit. Any service provider should supply details about their coverage, including limits and excesses.

You can arrange home insurance to start on the day you take ownership of your new property, often up to 30 days in advance.

Update your TV licence address

If you watch television at your new address, remember to update your TV licence information. This update can be done online through the official channels.

Transfer your broadband service

Contact your broadband provider to move your service to your new home. Many providers offer online address updates. This might also be a chance to explore new broadband options available at your new location.

Update your vehicle registration details

Make sure your driving licence reflects your new address. This update can be completed via the appropriate government website.

Also inform your car insurance provider of your change in address as this can affect your policy details.

Inform financial institutions of your move

Update your banks, building societies, credit card companies, and other financial services with your new address. This ensures your statements and communications reach you securely.

Notify regular delivery services

Remember to update any subscriptions or delivery services that you receive regularly, such as magazines, groceries, or other deliveries.

Apply for parking permits if needed

If your new home requires a parking permit, apply for one ahead of your move day. Also, confirm that your moving service will have easy access to your new property for a smooth move.

Empty your freezer before moving day

Use up or dispose of frozen food before moving day to avoid spoilage, as it's difficult to transport frozen items that remain frozen throughout the move.

Moving Home Checklist

Personal

  • Family
  • Friends
  • Employer

Governmental

  • Benefits Office
  • Electoral Register
  • Local Council
  • HM Revenue & Customs

Finance

  • Current Account(s)
  • Savings Account(s)
  • Credit Cards
  • Pension Providers
  • Home Insurance
  • Car Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Travel Insurance
  • Student Loan Services
  • Loyalty Cards
  • Premium Bonds

Utilities

  • Water Provider
  • Gas Supplier
  • Electricity Supplier
  • Landline Phone
  • Mobile Phone
  • TV Licence
  • Broadband Provider

Car

  • DVLA
  • Vehicle Registration
  • Breakdown Cover
  • Car Finance Provider

Health

  • Doctor
  • Dentist
  • Optician
  • Veterinary Clinic

Entertainment & Subscriptions

  • DVD Rentals
  • Gym Memberships
  • Newsagent
  • Magazine Subscriptions

Other

  • Library
  • Solicitor
  • Milk Delivery
  • Window Cleaner
  • School
  • College or University
  • Pet Microchipping Service
  • Gardener
  • Charities