When moving into a new apartment, it can often be tempting to just dive straight into the more interesting jobs that need to be done, like deciding where to put the TV or where to position the sofa in the living room.
The important and usually boring tasks often get left behind and forgot about as a result of this, meaning that when they are eventually done, there is a stressful rush to get them finished.
The following checklist should be pinned up in clear sight until the whole process of moving in is completed. It should hopefully mean that tasks will be completed with sufficient time to make sure they are done properly:
- TV licence – A common error made by many is to assume that the TV license that they bought when living in their previous home covers them for the new place also. Unfortunately this is not the case and can result in large fines, so make sure to look into this.
- Internet connection – even the fastest providers can take weeks to set this up, so the earlier that this is started, the earlier you will be surfing.
- Electricity and gas – take a note of your meter readings straight away and call your electricity and gas providers to set up your new account.
- Home and contents insurance – make some calls to make sure all of the legal documents are updated with your new address. Not doing this would mean that your home is not covered, regardless of whether you have kept up with payments.
- Car insurance – it’s the same story for your car. If something happens to it while it’s parked outside your new house, you may find that you’re not covered, so make sure the insurance company has your new address as soon as possible.
- Also ensure that all other records are updated with your new address. For example, go to your bank and give them your updated address details so that any mail or statements won’t be sent to the wrong address.
- Registering with a local GP and dentist as soon as you move in can be a good idea, so that when you actually need them, you won’t have to go through any stressful registration processes which could delay treatment.
- Have a look round the property to ensure that a smoke detector has been installed. If necessary, then check whether a carbon monoxide detector has been set up. Make sure they’re in working order and have battery life remaining.
Now all that’s left is to enjoy your new property, and get stuck into the more exciting tasks, like positioning furniture and decorating the rooms.