Whenever you move into a new property there is always a lot to do. Whether you are a first year moving out of halls of residence or at the end of a letting period and moving to a new place we have some helpful tips to help you make sure you've remembered the most important things.
Moving in:
Arrange contents insurance. You may find that your belongings are covered under your parents' contents insurance. If not, Endsleigh offer a good deal for students.
Check that the property has working smoke alarms. To make sure an alarm is functioning check the batteries by pushing the button on the alarm. You should do this once a week. Change the batteries as soon as you move in as you can't be sure how old they are.
Register your council Tax status, click here for details.
Get on the electoral register. Click here for details of how to go about this.
Get the telephone re-connected in your name, this is needed if you want internet access. If you ring a company to set up your internet, they often do this for you.
Take meter readings and register with electricity, gas and water companies.
Make sure you know how to contact your landlord/ letting agent in an emergency.
Check that all the doors and windows lock securely. If need be, ask the landlord/ letting agend to improve the locks and install security lighting.
Moving out:
Redirect your post. You can set up automatic mail redirection to your new address on the Royal Mail. Inform people of your change of address. This should include: - your utility providers (gas, water, electricity) - your telephone company - your bank or building society - your credit card company - your insurers - the DVLA.
Clear out any waste or rubbish you have, sometimes landlords/letting agent will charge you for any let over bin bags. The universities do end of year recycling days so contact them for more information. See our waste and recycling page to help you with getting rid of waste.
Inform your gas, electric, water suppliers that you are leaving the house. They will send you a final bill, ensure you give them your meter reading where necessary on the last day in your house to make sure you are not paying more than necessary.
Do the same for your internet provider and TV license, make sure you tell them you are moving.
Get your deposit, do a thorough clean! Clean your house from top to bottom to make sure you get back as much of your deposit back as possible.