5 Things to Set Up When Moving Into A New House
Moving into a new house is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming once the boxes arrive and reality kicks in — especially when you’re juggling family life with children alongside the move. Between unpacking, paperwork and getting used to your new surroundings, it’s easy to forget some important essentials. To help you settle in smoothly, here are five key things to set up as soon as you move into your new home.
1. Utilities and Broadband
One of the first things to check is that all your utilities are up and running. This includes gas, electricity and water, as well as broadband and phone services. Take meter readings on the day you move in to ensure you’re billed correctly and notify suppliers of your move as soon as possible.
Broadband in particular can take time to install or activate, so it’s worth arranging this ahead of moving day. A reliable internet connection is essential for work, entertainment and staying connected, so getting this sorted early can save a lot of frustration.
2. Change Your Address Everywhere
Updating your address is a task many people underestimate. Start with the most important organisations, such as your bank, employer, GP, dentist and insurance providers. You’ll also need to update your address for your driving licence, car registration and electoral roll.
Royal Mail’s redirection service can be a useful short-term solution, helping to catch anything you’ve missed while you get organised. Creating a simple checklist can make this process far more manageable.
Getting these admin-heavy jobs done early can go a long way towards making family life easier during those first busy weeks.
3. Home Security and Safety
Feeling safe in your new home is vital. Even if the previous owners left keys behind, it’s a good idea to change the locks, especially if you don’t know who might still have copies. Check that all doors and windows lock properly and consider fitting additional security if needed.
Don’t forget basic safety checks. Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors straight away, and replace batteries if required. Knowing these essentials are in place will give you peace of mind from day one.
4. Council Tax and Local Services
Registering for council tax is an important step that’s often overlooked in the chaos of moving. Contact your local council as soon as possible to let them know you’ve moved in, as delays can sometimes lead to fines or backdated charges.
It’s also worth familiarising yourself with local services, such as bin collection days, recycling rules and nearby amenities. Knowing when to put the bins out or where your nearest pharmacy is can make your new house feel like home much faster.
5. Insurance and Essential Cover
Finally, make sure your home and belongings are properly insured. Buildings insurance is usually required if you own the property, while contents insurance protects your possessions against damage or theft. Even if you had insurance at your previous address, it will need updating to reflect your new home.
Take a moment to review what’s covered and ensure the policy suits your needs. Having the right cover in place from the start can save significant stress later on.
Settling In with Confidence
Moving house comes with a long to-do list, but setting up these five essentials early can make a huge difference. Once they’re sorted, you can focus on unpacking, decorating and enjoying the fresh start that comes with your new home.
