Countdown to Move...

Four weeks to go...

• Get quotes from removal firms and appoint the one that best meets your needs.

• Check that they are properly insured and agree in advance exactly what they are prepared to do.

• Arrange travel plans for the move. If you are travelling a long distance you may need to book overnight accommodation or stay with friends or relatives in the area.

• Start collecting packing boxes and ensure you have lots of newspaper, tissue or bubble wrap for padding. Remember to buy plenty of strong, wide adhesive tape too.

• Start clearing out cupboards and if you come across things you haven’t used for over a year be ruthless and throw it away.

• Start packing non-essential items – best china, books, DVDs, out-of-season clothing and ornaments - and make sure the contents are clearly marked.

• Clear out your loft and pack as many items as you can from your garage and shed

• Tell your employer when you are moving and, if necessary, book the time off work

• Let everyone know that you are changing address and the date from which they need to amend their records.

• Arrange to have post re-directed to your new address - there is always somebody you will overlook when you send out your change-of-address notes!

• Keep all correspondence from McInerney Homes, your solicitor and the removals company safely together for easy reference.

• Contact your insurance company to arrange transfer of your home contents insurance on the move day. Your buildings insurance should already be in place on the day you move in.

• Don't use very large cardboard boxes for packing unless the contents are light. Large, heavy boxes are difficult to manoeuvre and your removal men won’t favour you for it.

Two weeks to go...

• Start running down food stocks in your cupboards and freezer.

• Continue to pack any items you won't need before the move.

• Kitchens in particular can take long time to pack up so be prepared and start early with the non essentials!

• Contact the gas, electric, telephone and water companies to inform them of the impending move and arrange for the meters to be read.

• Where relevant, arrange for someone to look after your children and pets during the move.

One week to go...

• Confirm the booking you have made with your removal firm

• Keep your vacuum cleaner, duster, polish and other ‘cleaning kit’ unpacked for that last once-over on the big morning.

• Cancel newspapers, milk and the window cleaner and settle any bills you may have overlooked.

The day before...

Moving is thirsty work, so prepare your moving day 'survival kit' of a kettle, mugs, tea, coffee, milk, sugar, teaspoons, sandwiches and snacks, washing-up liquid, tea towels and a hand towel… and don’t forget the all-important toilet roll!

• Defrost the freezer and fridge. If you intend to transport the freezer and its contents, put it on fast-freeze overnight.

• Pack overnight bags for everyone and put clothes out for the following day. If necessary, remember to keep out a few favourite toys for children to help them settle on the first night.

• Pack all your valuables together and carry them securely with you

• Keep the file containing all valuable documents relating to the move with you at all times in case you need to refer to them.

• Advise the telephone company of the time you want your telephone disconnecting (or the number transferring, if you are keeping it)

• Make a list of useful telephone numbers for the new occupiers of your home, plus instructions for operating any appliances.

• Make sure you have some money available for unforeseen circumstances

• Call your insurance company to ensure that your new contents cover will be in force on the morning of the move The day before.

On the morning of the move...

• Telephone the gas, electric and where applicable the water companies to give them your final meter readings.

• Keep the kettle and tea making kit handy.

• Check throughout the house - once the van is loaded take a walk around with the removal team leader to ensure that all the items have been placed in the van. It is your responsibility to make sure nothing is left behind.

• Check behind doors, in cupboards and on the walls. You would be surprised how often people keep looking at the wall clock but forget to take it down.

• Load up your vehicle. Have a last good look around for anything you might have forgotten.

• Ensure that all the windows and doors are locked when you leave.

After you move in ...

Please be aware that the new McInerney Homes development may still be under construction, so for your own protection and that of your family, please be careful and adhere to the company’s health and safety policy.

Your McInerney Homes home is the product of many years care and house building expertise, so look after it and you will get lasting enjoyment out of it.

For further information on running in your new home, please refer to the NHBC 'Guide to Your New Home' booklet, which you will be provided with upon legal completion.

• Be aware of construction vehicles moving around the development.

• Do not enter the construction areas and make children in particular aware that these are not playgrounds.

• Please obey signs erected for the safe movement of traffic and pedestrians.

• All visitors must report to the site office first and obtain permission to enter the construction site.

• Do not allow pets to roam free as they could get trapped in construction areas.