Changing address checklist for moving house
October 3, 2018
Moving house comes with a near-endless list of things to do - to say there's a lot you need to take into account would be an understatement! Packing everything up, finding a top-notch removal company and decluttering your old home can take a lot out of you, but even so, it’s important not to let any other details slip through the cracks.
One thing that you cannot afford to forget about is changing the registered address or switching energy supplier when moving house, as well as with your employer and bank. Failing to do so could leave you without access to what you need when you arrive at your new home, such as energy, water and money.
Why do I need to change my address when moving house?
Knowing your exact address is important for various providers, including your energy, water and broadband suppliers and your bank. Part of this is to do with security; having up-to-date information will help prevent criminals from accessing your accounts.
Perhaps the most important reason, however, is that your current location will also impact the rates you need to pay. It may be that your new locale will have cheaper prices for each of your necessities, in which case failing to update your address could lead to you wasting money.
Who do I need to alert about my change of address?
Royal Mail
Allowing important mail to continue being sent to your old address carries several risks. For one, you could miss bills and end up with late fees.
More importantly, however, you could have private information stolen by identity thieves. Financial details and personal identifying information is often sent in letters or parcels, so don’t take any chances!
Luckily, you can easily redirect your post with Royal Mail to ensure all of your mail goes to your new address. You can book this service for three, six or twelve months, with your mail redirected to any address in the UK or overseas.
Voting Address and Council Tax
Any delays in your council tax payments can be extremely costly, so don't wait too long to send off the necessary forms. You can submit the required documents online.
Whilst there, it may be beneficial to register to vote in your new locale too. It may sound unnecessary - especially when elections may be years away - but you don't want to wait until the last minute and find out that you can’t vote.
Medical
Once you have a moving date booked, it is important to find new local medical suppliers, such as a doctor’s surgery, a dentist, an optician and, if necessary, a paediatrician.
The last thing you want to do when you're sick - or in need of any other medical assistance - is to fill out forms and jump through hoops the next time you require an appointment.
HR Department
If you are staying in your job despite your move, you will need to get all of your new details squared with your workplace’s HR department. If there isn’t one, ask your manager who you need to speak to.
Remember, failing to do this could lead to complications with your continued employment or even your pay!
HMRC
Tax may appear to be an unnecessary expense - especially as we all look to cut back on spending. However, the reality is it's entirely unavoidable.
Informing HMRC about your new address will allow them to update your records for income tax, national insurance, tax credits, benefits and services.
Your Bank
Most people need money! Be sure to let your bank know about your new address in plenty of time, ideally at the start of the week, so that there are no delays in processing your information.
Remember, most banks are closed at the weekend!
Gas, water and electricity
Most utility providers will require you to provide at least 48 hours notice when changing your address. Doing so allows them to calculate your final bills and new local rates - if you plan on sticking with your current providers at your new address.
The 'other' essentials
You’ll want to be able to get comfy at your new home as soon as possible so switching broadband when moving house to have a stable internet connection can be crucial. Not only for working from home or schoolwork, but for entertainment and staying in touch with friends and family.
Most providers will allow you to change your address details online or via the phone. If not, you may need to sign a new contract, so ensure you give yourself plenty of time. If you are moving to a new area of the country, you’ll also need to change your phone number.
Additionally, don’t forget to update your address for your TV licence if you require one - and, perhaps most importantly, update the address on your streaming platforms.
You know how particular some of them get about using them in 'new locations'... we're looking at YOU, Netflix.
Vehicles
You might not live in your vehicle, but you will still need to send your new address to the DVLA, your insurance and breakdown recovery providers. Your vehicle registration will also need to be updated.
At this point, you should also take some time to consider the parking situation in your new local area. For example, will you need to apply for a parking permit?
Schools, colleges and universities
For those moving with children in tow, one vital thing to be mindful of is the school they attend. If you're staying relatively close to their current school, you'll need to inform the relevant academic administrators of your upcoming move. Doing so will prevent you from missing out on important updates or emergency messages.
Equally, if you work full-time and need assistance with childcare, it may be worth taking time before you move to explore the available options in your new area if after-school clubs aren't available.
Alternatively, if you're moving slightly further afield - or even to a new town/city - you may have to start searching for new schools entirely. Ensuring this is done before you move means your children don't miss out on any vital learning.
Passport
While this might be one of the first things you would usually check, there is no need to worry - updating your passport when moving house isn't mandatory as it doesn't actually show your address in print.
It can also be expensive, so don't pay for a new passport if you still have a while before your current one needs to be renewed.
You actually only need to get a new passport to travel abroad or prove your identity if you change your name, your gender or your appearance.