Who do I need to inform when moving house in the UK?

All of your time and efforts have gone into actually buying your new home, and you now need to complete the final step of informing everyone that you have now moved! But who is everyone? Let us help you break it down so you don’t miss anyone important out when moving house! 

Family and friends

First and foremost, let’s start with the most obvious: your family and friends. They need to know your new address so they can stay in touch and send you housewarming gifts! A quick group message or a fun moving announcement card can do the trick.

Utility Companies

To ensure that your new home is ready with all the essential services, you need to inform your utility providers. This includes:

1. Electricity and Gas: Notify your current provider of your move-out date and provide a final metre reading. Also, inform the provider for your new home, or if you’re switching, ensure the new provider is aware of your move-in date.
2. Water Supply: Contact your water supplier to update your details and ensure everything is set up at your new address.
3. Broadband and Phone: Arrange the transfer or setup of your internet and phone services in advance to avoid any downtime.

Local Council

1. Council Tax: You need to inform your current and new local councils to adjust your council tax accordingly.
2. Electoral Register: Ensure you update your details on the electoral register to maintain your right to vote.

Financial Institutions

Inform the following when moving house:

1. Banks and Building Societies: Update your address to receive important correspondence and prevent fraud.
2. Credit Card Providers: Ensure your billing address is correct to avoid payment issues.
3. Pension Services: Notify any pension services to keep your records current.

Insurance Providers

All your insurance providers need to be informed of your move to update your policies.

1. Home Insurance: Adjust your policy to cover your new home.
2. Car Insurance: Update your address, as it can affect your premium.
3. Health and Life Insurance: Ensure all your records are accurate to avoid any issues with claims.

Healthcare Services

Keeping your healthcare providers informed is vital when moving house.

1. GP and Dentist: Register with a new GP and dentist if you’re moving to a different area.
2. Optician: Update your details to continue receiving reminders for check-ups.
3. Specialist Services: Inform any other healthcare providers you’re in regular contact with.

Employers and education

• Employer: Ensure your employer has your new address for payroll and correspondence.

• Schools and Universities: Inform your child’s school or your own university of your new address to keep records up-to-date.

Postal Services

Consider setting up a mail redirection service with Royal Mail to catch any mail sent to your old address. This service can be arranged for up to 12 months and provides peace of mind that you won’t miss important correspondence during your move.

Subscriptions and memberships

Remember to update your address for any subscriptions and memberships, including:

1. Magazines and newspapers: Ensure they are delivered to your new home.
2. Online Shopping Accounts: Update your delivery address to avoid misdirected packages.
3. Gyms and clubs: Inform them of your new location, especially if you need to transfer to a different branch.

Government Services

Finally, ensure all relevant government services have your new address:

1. HMRC: Update your address for tax purposes.
2. DVLA: Notify the DVLA to update your driving license and vehicle registration documents.
3. State Benefits: Inform the Department for Work and Pensions if you receive any benefits.