If you are moving home, you will have a long list of organisations to contact. We take a look at how to advise the local authority and utility companies of your new address and avoid the potential difficulties and penalties that could arise if this isn’t done properly.
As soon as you exchange contracts and your date for completion is set, you should think about contacting your current energy provider. You should let them know that you will be leaving and give them your new address so that they can let you have a final bill when the time comes.
You can shop around for a new provider at this point if you want, to try and secure the best possible deal. If you are currently on a good tariff, you may be able to take this with you. In some cases, you might have to pay an exit fee to leave.
On the last day at your current property, you should remember to read the meters before you leave and submit this to your energy supplier straight away. You are also advised to take a photo of the meter by way of evidence.
If you forget to take a meter reading when you leave, you could find yourself liable for extra energy used by the new property owner.
If you have a water meter, you should also read this and take a picture for proof.
Arriving at your new home
You should try and locate the meters for everything as soon as you arrive. Again, you should take readings and photos.
In some cases, it can be difficult to locate meters, particularly in older homes where they could be tucked away. Under the stairs is a common location, but you could also check in the garage, in cupboards, under the sink or even in a box outside of the property.
You should arrange with your new provider to start the supply on your moving date.
If you do not have a water meter at your new property and you do not use a large amount of water, it may be worth having one installed. You can check online whether it is likely to be advantageous for you to have a water meter by filling in an online form which will calculate your water usage for you. If you would benefit by having a water meter, most companies will install one for free.
Council Tax
You should make sure that you notify the local authority that you will be moving as you could be changing tax band or moving to a different local authority region. Your existing bill is likely to be refunded if you have overpaid and a new bill issued for your new property.
If you leave your existing property but you have not sold it, you will still be required to pay the full amount of Council Tax.
If you are a single person occupying your new property on your own, you should notify the local authority of this as you may be eligible for a single person discount on your tax.
Contact us
If you would like to speak to one of our expert property lawyers, ring us on 0333 305 5189 or email us at info@lpropertylawyers.co.uk
