Moving On From St Mungo's

This section will covert he following subjects relating to:

Ready To Move On?
Securing a Property
Preparing to Move
Completing the Move

Ready To Move On?

Introduction
Once you and your Lead Worker have decided it's time for you to move on from St Mungo's accommodation you will go through a 'Move-On Checklist'. This will look at your independent living skills and how you will manage your future property. 
Reflections
Are you ready to move towards more independence? Do you know what you need to do before the move?
Click Here
Quick Tips
Make a list of To-Dos to complete before you move. Speak to your Lead Worker about contacting landlords or using a computer to search for properties.

1. Search for a new property

2. Secure a new property

3. Give notice to your current landlord

4. Prepare to move

5. Complete the move

6. Admin after moving

Details of each step:

1. Search for a new property

Searching for a new property involves:

  1. Setting your budget – Include rent, bills, deposit (usually 5 weeks’ rent), and moving costs.

  2. Picking your location – Think about work, transport links, local amenities, and safety.

  3. Starting your search – Use property websites (e.g. Rightmove, Zoopla, OpenRent), local letting agents, and social media groups.

  4. Viewing multiple properties – Take photos/videos, and ask questions about rent, contract length, bills, furnishings, and internet.

  5. Checking key documents – Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), Gas Safety Certificate, and deposit scheme info should be available

2. Secure a new property

Securing a rental property involves:

  1. Submitting an application – Usually involves references (employment, landlord), proof of ID, and right to rent checks (UK).

  2. Paying a holding deposit – Capped at 1 week’s rent. This temporarily takes the property off the market.

  3. Completing referencing – Provide bank statements, payslips, etc. Be honest; landlords value reliability.

  4. Signing the tenancy agreement – Read it carefully. Ask for clarification on anything unclear.

  5. Paying the full deposit and first month’s rent – Before getting the keys.

  6. Confirming move-in date and inventory process – Ask for an inventory/schedule of condition to be done at check-in.

3. Give notice to your current landlord

When you move out of any property, you need to give notice to your current landlord. 

When living at St Mungo’s, this is less important as your support worker will be helping you with your move on. 

However, this is crucial if you are living in the community. You will have signed a contract with your current landlord that requires you to provide notice when you are leaving!

4. Prepare to move

Preparing to move involves:

  1. Booking your removals/van hire – Well in advance, especially on weekends or month-end.

  2. Decluttering – Sell, donate, or recycle what you don’t need.

  3. Packing – Label boxes by room and contents. Use protective wrapping for fragile items.

  4. Taking meter readings – And schedule disconnection/move-out for utilities and internet.

  5. Redirecting your post – Through Royal Mail to your new address.

5. Complete the move

Completing the move involves:

  1. Deep cleaning – Or hire professionals (some landlords require this). Helps ensure you get your full deposit back.

  2. Making minor repairs – Fill holes, replace bulbs, fix scuffs, etc. Again, helps you get your full deposit back.

  3. Documenting the condition – Take photos or videos as evidence.

  4. Handing over keys – As arranged with landlord/agent.

6. Admin after moving

After you move, you will want to complete the following tasks:

  1. Notify of address change – Bank, GP, employer, DVLA, HMRC, etc.

  2. Set up new utilities – Contact providers or use comparison services. See Managing Your Tenancy for more info.

  3. Check the inventory at your new place – Flag anything not accurate. 

  4. Apply for council tax and register to vote – Update your local council. 

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