Moving into a new home in the UK is an exciting and emotional milestone — especially if this is your first time buying property here. You’ve saved for a deposit, arranged your mortgage, searched for the right home… and now, the keys are finally in your hands.
Congratulations! 🎉
But before you relax and start unpacking, it’s important to take care of a few practical tasks. This will help you avoid unexpected bills, secure your property, and truly feel at home from day one.
Here’s your essential checklist for settling into your new home in the UK.
1. Take Your Meter Readings
This should be the first thing you do on the day you move in — even if the seller or estate agent says they’ve already submitted them.
Why it matters:
If you don’t send updated readings, you might end up paying for the previous owner’s or tenant’s usage. That could easily be hundreds of pounds.
What to do:
Locate your electricity, gas, and (if applicable) water meters, write down the readings, take clear, timestamped photos for proof. Contact the current utility providers and submit the readings. If you’re unsure who the providers are, check with your local Council or use the Ofgem website.
2. Update Your Address Everywhere
Once you’ve moved in the new home in the UK, make sure all relevant services have your new address. Who to notify:
- Your bank and any credit institutions
- NHS — via your GP or the NHS App
- DVLA — to update your driving licence and V5C
- HMRC — for taxes and benefits, your employer
- All insurance providers (so your policies remain valid)
Don’t miss important mail!
Set up Royal Mail redirection for 3, 6, or 12 months — this protects you from lost documents and bills sent to your old address.
3. Register with Your Council and Utility Providers
Go to your Local Council’s website and register as the new occupant (owner or tenant). You can set up Direct Debit payments and check your tax band there. Gas & Electricity: Submit readings and review your tariff. Internet: Book installation early — lead times can be up to 2 weeks.
You can also compare providers and switch to a better deal once you’ve moved in.
4. Change the Locks
You never know who might still have keys — previous owners, their relatives, builders, or even estate agents. Even for new builds, spare keys may be floating around.
Hire a licensed locksmith to replace all external locks. It’s an affordable step that ensures your safety and peace of mind.
5. Set Up Your Finances and Direct Debits
Life runs more smoothly when your bills are paid automatically — especially if you have a busy job or travel often. Set up Direct Debits for:
- Mortgage payments
- Council Tax
- Gas & electricity
- Water
- Insurance policies
- Internet and mobile
Create a simple spreadsheet or use a budgeting app to track payment dates and avoid late fees.
6. Review Your Insurance Policies
Buildings Insurance: Required if you have a mortgage. It covers structural damage due to fire, flood, etc.
Contents Insurance: Protects your belongings — electronics, furniture, clothes, and personal items.
Mortgage Protection Insurance: If you’re self-employed or the main earner, consider this cover. It can help pay your mortgage if illness or loss of income strikes.
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7. Celebrate Your New Home in the UK 🎉
Yes, moving can be stressful — but it’s also a moment of joy! Unpack your favourite items, invite a few friends over for tea or dinner. Take a moment to appreciate the journey that brought you here.
Your new home in the UK is more than just walls and a roof — it’s a fresh start, filled with new memories waiting to happen.
Final Checklist for Moving Into a New Home in the UK
- Take meter readings and photos
- Update your address with key services
- Register with your Local Council
- Set up utilities
- Change the locks
- Set up Direct Debits
- Check insurance coverage
- Celebrate your move 🎉
