Whether you're moving into a new council home or moving out of your current one, there are some important things you need to do before moving day.
Use this checklist to prepare your home, update your details and services, and make sure everything is ready before you move.
Before you move in
- Give written notice on your current tenancy at least 28 days before moving
- Arrange and pay for moving your belongings and furniture
- Arrange contents insurance for your new home
Before you move out
You must make sure the property is clean and ready for the next tenant. If you do not complete the following tasks, you may be charged for cleaning, clearance or repairs.
Clean and clear the property
- Clean the property thoroughly, including the kitchen, bathroom, windows, doors, handles, kitchen units and floors
- Remove all furniture, personal belongings and rubbish from the property and garden, including items stored in lofts, sheds, garages or other outbuildings
- Use our bulky waste collection service to dispose of large household items
- Leave any furniture or appliances rented from the Council
- Remove all carpets, underlay, grippers and vinyl flooring, unless agreed otherwise
If your carpets are in good condition and you would like to leave them for the next tenant, please email landlordservices@oxford.gov.uk to arrange this.
Carry out essential repairs
- Redecorate and repair anything that is your responsibility
- Replace any missing fixtures or fittings
Tidy the garden
- Tidy the garden
- Remove any sheds, greenhouses or other structures that you installed without our permission
- Fill in any ponds or water features
Return your keys
You must return all keys when you move out. If your keys are not returned at the end of your tenancy, you may be charged additional rent until they are returned.
If you’ve made changes to your home
If you have made improvements or alterations to your home, you must return the property to its original condition before you move out unless we approved the changes. If you do not, you may be charged for any work needed to repair damage or restore the property.
If we approved the alterations, you may be:
- able to take non-structural improvements with you
- eligible for compensation if the improvements must remain in the property
See Make improvements to your council home.
Update your details and services
When you're moving home, remember to update your details and close or transfer any services linked to your address.
- Tell your utility suppliers that you are moving and provide final meter readings
- Arrange for your phone and broadband services to end or move to your new address
- Tell our Council Tax team that you are moving
- Update your electoral register details
- Tell any benefit agencies that you are moving
- Arrange mail redirection through the Post Office at least 7 days before you move
- Return your council parking permit, if applicable
- Give your new address to TV Licensing
