A Tenant's guide to moving home

Welcome Home!👋🏼 The ultimate new Tenant checklist to settle in & master your new space.

September is officially the biggest moving month of the year. Whether you’re a student setting up your first flat, a young professional relocating for work, or just moving across town to a new space, welcome to your new home!

The first week in a new place can feel like a whirlwind of cardboard boxes and endless admin. To help you settle in smoothly and avoid any unnecessary stress, we’ve put together four essential tasks to cross off your to-do list this week!

1. Sort out your Utilities and Council Tax

Getting your admin sorted early saves you from surprise bills down the road.

Take clear photos of your gas, electricity, and water meters on the day you move in, and submit them to the suppliers right away.
Register your move with the local council.
- Students, this one's for you! Full-time students are usually exempt from Council Tax, but you must apply for an exemption certificate through your local council website to avoid being charged.
- Single occupant tenancies - If you live alone, don't forget to apply for the 25% Single Person Discount.

2. Register with a Local GP and Dentist

It’s easy to forget health admin until you actually need a doctor. Don’t wait until you’re unwell!

Search the NHS website for the closest GP and NHS dentist accepting new patients in your postcode.
Most practices now allow you to register online in less than five minutes. Transferring your medical records takes a bit of time, so getting it done during move-in week ensures seamless care later.

3. Master the Bin Collection Schedule

Nothing ruins a smooth week quite like missing bin day or getting a warning from the council for using the wrong bins.

Local councils operate on strict rotation schedules (e.g., general waste one week, recycling and garden waste the next). Head to your local council’s website, type in your postcode, and bookmark or download their bin collection calendar.
On collection days, place your bins out by the edge of the property (or designated collection point), and make sure to pull them back in promptly after they’ve been emptied to keep entryways clear and tidy.

4. Be a Great Neighbour (Quiet hours & courtesy)

Building a good relationship with your neighbours from day one makes your entire tenancy much more enjoyable.

A quick smile and hello in the hallway or over the garden fence goes a long way.
Sound travels easily through shared walls and floors, especially in converted period buildings or modern apartment blocks. As a general rule, keep music, TVs, and loud appliances (like washing machines) down between 11 PM and 7 AM.

Need any help settling in?

If you have any questions about your inventory, appliance manuals, or reporting a maintenance item, our team is always here to help. Reach out through your tenant portal or give our office a quick call!

Posted By

Sophie Ombler