There are a lot of questions that need answering when it comes to moving house. From asking yourself how much of an investment you’re willing to make, to asking for time off of work to accommodate the move.
Some questions are obvious and easily answered by the estate agents, but there are a number of forgettable questions that are best answered by those vacating the property. Whether it’s after the sale has been agreed, or when you’re viewing the property, here are just a few questions to ask that will help you settle in to your new home with ease.
What are the neighbours like?
Although you may not get a definite answer if the owners are desperate to move because of unruly neighbours, it’s a worthy question to ask. If you don’t feel like you’re getting a truthful answer, then why not try knocking on doors and introducing yourself?
Where are the gas and electricity meters?
You’ll need to take meter readings as soon as you arrive at your new home so that you only pay for the gas and electricity you use. Spending hours trying to locate the meters wastes valuable moving time and can be solved by simply asking this question.
Also, ask where the main stopcock is in case the water needs to be shut off, or even turned back on, and where the thermostat is. Knowing the location of the thermostat is especially helpful for those moving during the UK winter.
Do you have manuals and warranties for the white goods and electrical items that come with the house?
If the property comes with a fridge, freezer, oven, or any other items then you’ll not only need to know how to work them, but what to do if something goes wrong. Asking former occupants to leave behind any instructions and warranties will help you if your appliances break down and are in need of repair.
When do I need to put the bins out?
Knowing the waste collection and recycling routine before moving is incredibly useful. Most councils now run twice monthly wheelie bin emptying, and weekly recycling collections, meaning that if you accidently miss a collection day, then you could end up with a full bin for a month.
How much are your bills on average?
Knowing how much bills are likely to be can give you an idea of whether you are getting value for money with your new home. A cheap to buy or rent place may seem like an excellent deal, but you could find yourself spending much more than you initially thought if it costs a lot to heat the home.
What’s the on-road parking usually like?
Even if you have a driveway and garage, it is still likely that you are going to need to park on the road on your moving day. Your removals company will need to stop close to your new home to unload their vans, so knowing that the road is busy or quiet can help you plan your moving day.
Knowing whether you’ll be able to get a parking space outside your front door, or whether you need to apply and pay for a parking permit is also incredibly useful.
Can you access the attic? If so, how?
During viewing, you’re unlikely to ask to see the attic, but it is good to know whether you can access it or not. In some rental properties you may be unable to access the attic space, and if the property is home to bats, then you may be unable to access the attic due to it being illegal to disturb roosting bats.
Intransit are removal experts that specialise in helping families and offices relocate in Wiltshire and the south west. If you’ve yet to book your removals companies, or are still looking for a quote, please get in touch by calling 01225 759200.
