Moving to a new house is one of life’s major milestones. However, with all the excitement of starting fresh, the administrative tasks that come with a move can feel overwhelming. Among the most crucial tasks to tackle is changing your address. From ensuring your mail gets redirected to notifying the right people and organisations, this step can sometimes slip through the cracks.
To make your move smoother, we’ve created a change of address checklist to help you stay organised and a comprehensive guide to updating your address across the UK, with key tips to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Related: Who to notify when you’ve moved house
What to include in your change of address checklist
When moving house, it’s important to keep track of all the places that need to know your new address.
Here are the most important ones to consider:
Royal Mail
Your first step should be to set up Royal Mail redirection. This service ensures that any post sent to your old address gets forwarded to your new one. It’s an essential service that gives you peace of mind, knowing that important documents won’t get lost. Setting up redirection is simple and can be done online, so you don’t have to worry about missing anything important.
Banks and financial institutions:
It’s easy to forget, but updating your address with your bank, credit card companies, and loan providers is vital. Your financial institutions send important documents and statements that need to arrive at the correct address. Make sure your new details are recorded as soon as possible to avoid missing important letters or bills.
Utility providers:
Contact your utility providers – gas, electricity, water, and broadband – to update your address. You’ll need to inform them of your move-out date and set up services at your new property. If you’re switching to a new provider, now is also the time to compare deals to ensure you’re getting the best rates. Taking final metre readings on the day you move out will help you avoid paying for usage by the new occupants.
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC):
Don’t forget to inform HMRC of your change of address. This is especially important if you are self-employed or receive any benefits, as it ensures your tax returns and related documents are sent to the right address. Keeping your details up to date with HMRC also helps maintain accurate records for your National Insurance contributions.
Healthcare providers
Your GP, dentist, and any other medical providers should be informed of your move. Ensuring that they have your new contact details will help you avoid missing appointments or important health updates. This is particularly important if you’re moving to a different area and need to register with a new local doctor.
Insurance providers
It’s crucial to update your home, car, life, and health insurance providers with your new address. If you don’t, you risk delays in claims processing or policy issues. Home insurance is especially important to update to ensure your new property is covered from day one.
Electoral Roll
Updating your address with the electoral roll is essential. This ensures that you can vote in local and national elections and affects your credit rating. It’s easy to do online, so make sure you update your details to avoid missing any voter registration opportunities.
Schools and employers
If you have children, let their schools or colleges know about your move. This will ensure that any important documents or school-related communications are sent to the correct address. Similarly, update your employer with your new contact details so that payroll and tax documents are correctly addressed.
Subscriptions and memberships
Any magazines, subscription services, or loyalty programs you’re signed up for should be updated with your new address. Whether it’s a fitness club, book subscription, or even a wine club, keeping these updated ensures you don’t miss any deliveries or benefits.
Family and friends
Lastly, make sure to inform your close friends, family, and anyone else who might need your new address. While this may seem like a small detail, it’s always good to stay connected, especially when sending invites for housewarmings or just keeping in touch.
Related: Our guide to a stress-free moving day
How to stay organised with a change of address checklist:
With so many things to update, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. However, staying organised and methodical can help keep you on track.
Start early
Don’t wait until the last minute to start changing your address. Begin updating your details as soon as you confirm your moving date. This way, you’ll have plenty of time to sort out any issues before you move in.
Create a checklist
Make a comprehensive list of every organisation and service that needs to know your new address. This could include everything from your mortgage provider to your local library. You can use a digital checklist or an old-fashioned paper one to keep track of what’s been done and what still needs attention.
Set reminders
Some address changes take longer than others to process. Set reminders a few weeks after your move to check on places you may have missed. It’s easy for things to slip through the cracks when you’re juggling so many tasks, so giving yourself a few prompts can make a big difference.
Use a forwarding service
Royal Mail offers a mail redirection service, which can forward your mail for a period of 3, 6, or 12 months. This is a great safety net in case any organisations don’t update your address immediately. It allows you to continue receiving mail while you wait for everything to be updated.
Related: What first- time buyers need to know
Postal charges when changing address
When setting up your mail redirection, the cost will vary based on the duration of the service. Royal Mail offers mail redirection to any UK or overseas address for 3, 6, or 12 months. Prices start from £41.50.
While these charges may seem like an added cost, they are well worth the peace of mind knowing that your post will continue to be forwarded. You can always choose the duration that best suits your needs, whether you want a short-term or longer-term solution.
Finishing your address change
Changing your address might seem like a long list of tasks, but it’s essential to get it right. With this checklist in hand, you can stay on top of everything, ensuring that your important post reaches you and your services run smoothly. By starting early, keeping organised, and using services like Royal Mail redirection, you’ll make the transition to your new home a whole lot easier.
At Parkers Estate Agents, we’re here to make your move as seamless as possible. Whether you’re buying or selling, contact your local Parkers branch for guidance.
