Who to notify when moving to a new home

Moving house is an exciting time, but with so much to organise, it's easy to overlook some important details. One of the key tasks on your to-do list should be informing the right people and organisations of your change of address. Missing this step can lead to lost post, unpaid bills, or even security issues. To make things easier, we've put together this comprehensive guide on who to inform when moving house. 

1. Government and local authorities

Council tax

Your local council needs to be notified so they can update your Council Tax records. This ensures you're paying the correct amount and avoids any unnecessary charges or fines.

DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency)

If you drive, you must update your address with the DVLA for both your driving licence and vehicle logbook (V5C). Failing to do so can result in fines. 

HMRC and DWP

If you receive tax credits, Child Benefits, or pensions, notify HMRC and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to ensure your payments continue without interruption. 

Electoral roll

Updating your details on the electoral role ensures you're registered to vote at your new address, which is essential for participating in elections and referendums. Being correctly registered can also help verify your identity with financial institutions and other services.

2. Utilities and service providers

Gas, electricity and water

Let your gas, electricity and water suppliers know your move date and provide final meter readings to ensure accurate billing.

Internet, TV and phone providers

Arrange the transfer or cancellation of your broadband, TV and phone services well in advance to avoid disruption.

TV licence

Your TV licence doesn't update automatically, so be sure to change your address to stay covered.

3. Financial institutions

Banks and building societies

Inform your bank, credit card providers, and any savings or investment accounts of your new address to ensure important correspondence reaches you. 

Loan and mortgage providers

If you have a mortgage or any loans, update your details to prevent communication issues.

Insurance providers

From home and car insurance to life and pet insurance, updating your address ensures your policies remain valid.

4. Healthcare providers

GP, dentist and optician

If you're moving to a new area, register with a new GP and dentist as soon as possible. Even if you're staying local, updating your details ensures you receive important health-related correspondence.

Private health insurance

If you have private health insurance, notify your provider to keep your records up to date.

5. Employment and education

Employer

Your employer needs your updated address for payroll, tax, and pension purposes.

Schools and universities

If you have children, let their school or university know about your move so they can update their records accordingly.

6. Subscription services and memberships

Streaming and subscription boxes

From Netflix to Amazon Prime to beauty boxes and meal kits, update your address to avoid lost deliveries.

Gym and clubs

If you're a member of a gym, local club, or professional organisation, update your details to stay connected.

7. Friends, family and personal contacts

Don't forget to share your new address with friends and family so they can stay in touch and send mail to the right place.

Making the process easier

Notifying all these organisations might seem like a lot, but here are some ways to simplify the process:

• Use a mail redirection service - Royal Mail offers a mail redirection service to forward post to your new home for up to 12 months.
• Make a checklist - Work through each organisation step by step to stay organised.
• Update details online - Many providers allow you to update your address quickly through their websites.

Ensuring you inform the right people when you move house in the UK helps prevent unnecessary stress, lost post, and potential fines. By following this checklist, you can make your move as smooth as possible.

At Pickfords, we're here to help make your move stress-free. Get in touch for a free, non-obligatory removals quote.