The big stress of the move is over - but before you get too relaxed you may want to consider some of these important settling in tasks...

7 Things To Do After Moving Into A New Home

Unpack The Essentials

You don’t have to unpack everything straight away, but you should make sure that certain essentials are out of their boxes. Make sure that any boxes of food are unpacked so that nothing is left to expire. Important medication should also be unboxed in case you need it. Other essential items to consider could include toiletries, cooking equipment, clothing, electronic chargers and basic tools.
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Check Safety And Security Features

It’s worth checking that all alarms in your new home are working such as smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms and burglar alarms. If disaster strikes and your alarms aren’t working, you’ll have no warning. Make sure that locks on doors work and that there are no heating or electric issues. If certain safety features are lacking and you moved in on the assumption that everything was safe, you’re in your right to sue the seller (if you’re renting, it’s your landlord’s job to fix the problem immediately).

Tell Your Bank (And Your Creditors)

It’s important to tell your bank and all your creditors that you’ve changed address. Do this at the same time so that your credit score isn’t affected (having bills and accounts registered to multiple addresses can lower your credit score). If you’re adopting new energy providers in your new home, make sure to tell your old energy providers so that you’re not getting billed for two homes. Insurers, lenders and mail subscribers are also worth notifying. ​

Get A New Driving License

When changing your address, it’s a legal requirement to also make sure that this information is changed on your driving license. Consider getting this renewed as soon as possible. You do not have to do this with your passport.

Update Your Voter Registration

If it comes round to an election and you are still registered to your old address, you won’t receive a polling card. Make sure to update your voter registration so that you’re able to vote whenever another election comes round.

Get To Know Your Neighbours

Getting to know your neighbours could help you to feel a sense of belonging in your local area. There are often times when we need to ask our neighbours for favours or make complaints and being on friendly speaking terms can help to make this less awkward. This guide on how to meet your neighbours offers some ideas on how you can break down barriers. For instance, you could offer a gift or throw a housewarming party.

Inform Your Friends And Family

It’s important that friends and relatives are informed. If you have distant relatives that send you Christmas cards or gifts, make sure to inform them so that things don’t end up getting sent to the wrong address. Telling people individually may be safer than broadcasting your address on Facebook.  

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