What to do before moving house
It's best to start preparing for your move early, so you have less to worry about later. Here are the essential tasks to focus on:
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Confirm the date of your move
Whether you're buying or renting, it's important to finalise your moving date. If you're buying, confirm the date with your solicitor. If you're renting, notify your landlord. Once the date is set, you can plan for water supply changes.
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Create a moving timeline
Start planning at least eight weeks before your move by breaking down tasks into weekly goals. Use this checklist to stay organised and make sure nothing gets overlooked, helping you transition smoothly to your new home without last-minute stress.
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Organise your belongings
From your furniture to your kitchen utensils, efficiently plan and organise your belongings. Create an inventory list and declutter unnecessary items. This will help if anything gets damaged or lost during the move. A great way to reduce moving costs and effort is by donating or selling items in good condition and disposing of those that are no longer usable.
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Hire a moving company
If you're planning on hiring a moving company, get quotes from at least three moving companies well in advance to make sure you’re hiring the most reliable and cost-effective service. Verify their credentials, read reviews, and double-check that they’re insured. Share the relevant details from your moving timeline with them.
Who to inform when you’re moving house
Several organisations need to be informed about your change of address, especially those related to your water.
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Your current water company
Let your current water company know about your move within 30 days before your move, so they can close your account or transfer the service. Find out how to notify us depending on whether you’re new to the area, staying local, or moving away.
If you have a water meter, take a final meter reading on the day you move out to make sure your final water bill is accurate. Follow our step-by-step guide on how to find your water meter and take a reading.
Make sure you request and settle all outstanding bills before you leave your current home. If you're currently one of our customers, you can do so online by logging into Your Account. This avoids any complications later and will make sure your account is closed correctly.
Also, contact the water company in your new area ahead of time to make sure supply starts on the day you move in.
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Other utility providers
Similar to your water, inform your electricity, gas, and internet providers of your move-out date. Contact the providers in your new area and set up your accounts in advance if possible
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Your landlord or agent
If you’re renting, make sure your landlord or property manager is aware of changes to your water account.
If you’re a landlord helping a tenant navigate their move and we’re your provider, please refer to the Landlord and Tenant Address Portal. There, you can manage all your properties, water accounts, and tenant information in one place.
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Government bodies
When moving, it's important to update your details with key government bodies. After your move, notify the DVLA to update your driving license and vehicle registration, including your vehicle logbook (V5C).
Inform both your old and new local councils to manage your council tax and request a final statement, which might even result in a refund.
Also, don’t forget to transfer your TV license to the new address, which can easily be done online. If you receive benefits, update your information with the Department of Work and Pensions to ensure there are no disruptions to your payments.
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Insurance providers
Notify your car insurer of your new address, as providers often set their prices based on your location. Also, check whether adjusting or cancelling your buildings or contents insurance during the policy year incurs a fee.
If you’re purchasing a home, remember that once you exchange contracts, you take legal responsibility for the property.
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Redirect your mail
Consider setting up Royal Mail’s redirection service to forward your mail to your new address. This gives you extra time to update your contacts after the move.
You may also want to update your address with online retailers such as Amazon or other marketplaces you frequently shop from, so your upcoming purchases are delivered to your new home.
At your new home
Once you’ve arrived at your new home, there are still a few things to consider and put into place before you can fully relax and enjoy your new home.
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Inspect your property
Before unpacking, do a thorough walkthrough. Note any pre-existing damages or issues and report them to your landlord or document them for your own records if you’re the owner.
In particular, inspect your new home for any leaks or drips. Addressing them early can save on water bills and prevent damage.
You can also test that safety devices such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and security systems are functioning properly.
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Learn where things are in your new home
It's important you understand your new home's systems, including your water, gas, and electricity. Make sure you know the location of the stop tap, various meters, thermostat, fuse box, and instructions for appliances.
If you're selling, it’s helpful to leave a list of these locations for the new occupants.
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Take initial water, gas, and electricity meter readings
If your new home has water, gas, and electricity meters, take an initial reading from each as soon as you move in to make sure that you're only charged for what you use from the moving date onwards.
If we’re your water company here, please submit your initial water meter reading via Your Account.
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Set up your new utilities
Once you’ve moved into your new home, set up your accounts in case you haven’t done so before moving in. Research your local providers and contact them to set up yourself up.
Check whether we cover your area and follow our guide in order to set up your water bill with us.
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Familiarise yourself with local services
Get to know the local services in your area, including healthcare providers, emergency contacts, and schools.
It’s also important to check when your local council collects bins and recycling, and find out who to contact for any water supply issues in your new area. It’s better to know this information before an emergency arises.
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Get to know your neighbourhood
Take some time to explore your local area and meet your neighbours. Find out where your nearest grocery store, pharmacy and parks are. This will help you feel more comfortable and familiar with your new surroundings.
Monitor your utility bills for the first few months to see where you may be able to reduce usage to save money and protect the environment. Make adjustments to improve energy efficiency, such as draught-proofing and installing energy-efficient lighting, to secure the best tariff for you.
