Useful tips for anyone moving home

With all the packing and planning there’s a lot to think about, but it’s really important you take time to ensure your property is left clean, tidy and in good repair. If you don’t leave it in a suitable state for us to relet to the next tenants, we will charge you for any work we have to do. These costs can run into thousands of pounds if we have to clear rubbish, remove personal items, redecorate, or replace damaged items such as doors, windows, kitchens, or bathrooms.

Make sure you don’t face a hefty bill by following our Moving Out Standard. It has been developed in partnership with tenants to show you how we expect a property to be left. Simply tick off the jobs on the checklist to make sure you are ‘move ready’.

You’ll also be helping to ensure we can relet the property as quickly as possible to someone on the housing register waiting for a home.

Remember, you must give us at least four weeks’ notice before leaving and you’ll need to have a clear rent account and the finances in place to pay for your removal costs before handing in your notice. You will also need to email us to arrange for a member of housing staff to carry out an inspection of your home before you go.

Things you’ll need to do before moving out

Below is a list of just some things you’ll need to do before moving out. Check our Moving Out Standard for a full list.

• Reinstate any alterations you have made and remove carpets or laminate flooring (unless you have our written permission they can be left)
• Check every room thoroughly for damage and report any repairs that need to be completed before you leave
• Fill any holes in walls and redecorate where needed (check our online decorating guide for top tips)
• Book a registered gas engineer to ‘cap off’ gas appliances
• Set up a redirect for your mail and let utility services know your new address
• Cut the grass and trim any overgrown greenery
• Remove all your garden items such as sheds, greenhouses, decking, pots, and garden furniture
• Get rid of any furniture or belongings you don’t want to take to your new home. Some local charities will collect large items free of charge
• Give your entire property a good clean, both inside and out

On moving day you must

• Make sure the property is completely empty inside and out (including the balcony, garden, loft or garden shed)
• Take all your belongings with you and remove any rubbish
• Leave gas and electric cards in the meter along with supplier details and ensure the meters don’t have any debt
• Leave any manuals for appliances or heating systems
• Turn off the gas and electricity
• Lock the property, label all keys and hand to your Local Housing Office

Remember, we're here to help! If you've got any questions about moving out, just contact your Local Housing Office.