MOVING HOME
If you are moving home it will be a very busy time for you. Here is some useful information and reminders.
REMOVAL COMPANIES
Costs vary - get at least 3 quotes.
Does the cost include VAT and other "extras"?
Do you have to pay a deposit?
Is any deposit paid returnable if the removals date has to be rearranged?
Do they offer a "pack and wrap" service?
If you do your own packing the removal company's insurance may not cover those items - remember to mark clearly any fragile items and use "bubble wrap"
Do they offer storage services?
Ask friends if they have had a good service from any local companies.
DOING IT YOURSELF
It will cost you less ( e.g. van hire)
You will need plenty of willing volunteers
It will take longer
It will probably take more journeys
There will be no insurance cover for any items which may be damaged in the move - remember to mark clearly any fragile items and use "bubble wrap"
FURNITURE
If you are in receipt of Welfare Benefits, you may be entitled to a Community Care Grant or Loan to help you with the costs of obtaining the things you need for your new home. You will need to complete the application form without delay. (Please speak to a Housing Advisory Officer for further information)
FURNITURE PROJECTS
These provide items of furniture at very low cost for households on Welfare benefits or limited incomes.
- Ipswich Furniture Project - Tel: 01473 404004
SECOND HAND FURNITURE
There are many second hand furniture dealers. Check the "Yellow Pages" and other directories.
- You can pick up a bargain
- don't be afraid to "haggle" over the price
BENEFITS
If you are in receipt of either or both Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit you will need to complete a new application. The rent on your new home will probably be different.
HOUSING REGISTER
If you are on the Council's Housing Register and still wish to be considered for alternative housing in the future, please note you will need to complete a NEW application form to assess your circumstances at your new home.
Remember to inform any other housing providers whose waiting lists you wish to remain on.
POST
Remember to arrange to collect or have forwarded any post sent to your old address.
The Post Office will arrange for your post to be automatically sent to your new address for a period of time. There is a small charge for this.
SERVICES
Contact the Electric, Gas and Telephone Services ( If you currently receive, or will be receiving these services). You will need to make arrangements for meters to be read, services connected etc.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS
Apart from your family and friends, there will be many organisations who will need to know you have moved.
Here are just a few:
- Council Tax Office
- Water Authority
- DSS
- Doctor
- Dentist
- Schools
Make a list. You are bound to forget someone!
Every success in your new home