A checklist to help you feel prepared for moving out of your accommodation:
Bills, utilities and admin tasks:
- Contact utility companies on the day you move out to give them your final meter readings and provide them with your new billing address
- Make sure to give your contact details to your housemates and provide these to your landlord to contact you about your deposit
- Make sure furniture and furnishings are returned to their original places and that the property is cleaned to a high standard
- Redirect your mail at royalmail.com and inform your bank, doctors, workplace, etc. of your new address
- Take all your belongings with you when you leave, as the landlord could charge you for the removal of any items left behind
- Ask your landlord or letting agent if they will carry out a formal inspection before you move out, with a formal checking inventory, so they can highlight any areas you need to work on to improve your chances of getting your deposit back
- Make sure you understand if you have any liability for council tax. You can find out more on our understanding council tax webpage
Reading Students' Union are able to help with any questions you may have about any of the processes mentioned above. They can also provide advice and and information in relation to housing matters. Complete the online form to contact the Reading Students' Union Advice Service.
Moving Process:
- Pack sustainably - use suitcases, duffle bags, and reusable containers when possible, instead of cardboard boxes
- Use second-hand boxes - you can ask local supermarkets and shops for their leftover cardboard boxes
- Protecting items - use clothing, soft personal items or recycled paper instead of bubble wrap and packing peanuts
- Packing materials - use packing paper or honeycomb wrap, which can be recycled after use
Food:
- Donate to local foodbanks - help reduce you environmental impact and help the community
- Ask around and share
- Create meal plans with the food you have left in the cupboards and fridge
Waste and recycling:
- Your rubbish will only be collected if it’s all in the bin with the lid shut
- Take excess waste to the re3 Household Waste and Recycling Centre. Don’t forget to book a free slot before you move out.
- Keep your front garden clean and don’t leave your bin on the pavement
- Red bins are for clean recycling only. Don’t use bags, keep all items loose, otherwise your bin won’t be collected
- Glass won’t be collected – you need to take bottles and jars to the glass recycling banks
- Batteries and vapes must go in a clear bag on top of your recycling bins
Unwanted kitchen items, furniture, books and clothes:
- Donate to charity shops
- Sell elsewhere - eBay, Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree to sell larger items
- Offer items to your hallmates, housemates, and friends