Moving locally usually involves moving less than 150 miles (240 km) from one location to another. While some families in Calgary, Alberta or other cities in Canada might choose to move in and around the same neighborhood, others may move locally to a nearby town or city. Regardless of where your next home will be, there are a few essential things to prepare that’ll make it a lot easier for you to settle in.

Check out our quick list of pertinent things to do to assure you can resume your normal routine ASAP once relocated:

1. New Home Inspection

If you’re moving into a newly constructed home, you’ll have conducted a final inspection before taking possession. This process ensures the house is completed and ready for occupancy.

Keep in mind, however, that a lot of the times the timeline allocated to finish this procedure isn’t sufficient to fully identify deficiencies. As a rule of thumb, don’t give final sign-off during the time of your inspection. Instead, note on your documentation that you reserve the right to add items of deficiency once you’ve taken possession. 

Most builders will allow a certain period of time to finalize your list. After you’re fully moved in, you can take the time to go through your new house on a room-by-room basis and closely inspect the workmanship and take note of any damages or minor repairs. The same thing applies to the exterior of your home as well as the garage and basement. Try to submit your list to your builder in a timely manner.

If you discover serious problems such as leaks, electrical, heating or air conditioning that aren’t working properly, let your building company know of the necessary repair immediately. You should also retain a copy of the list for yourself as it might be required to submit a copy to your lawyer also.

2. Inspect Possessions for Damage

As your movers deliver your furniture, they’ll give you a set of inventory documents or a check-list you can use to keep track of items coming off the truck. In the unlikely event that there are missing items, this will be noted and traced right away.

Once you’re at the stage of unpacking your items, take stock of any items that have been broken or damaged so you can file a claim. Let your moving company know as soon as possible, and take care not to discard any broken items before your movers get the chance to inspect them before settling your claim.

Remember, a moving company is not responsible for any damages to customer packed items unless there is visible evidence that cartons have been dropped or crushed. That’s why it’s important to note any damaged cartons to your moving crew while boxes are being unloaded.

3. Reconnection, Redirection and Set-Up of Services

It’s important to contact your utility companies in advance to arrange for electrical, gas and water service reconnection. Typically, the previous owner will have the meters read before disconnection. For cable, internet and telecommunication, it’s wise to make appointments prior to moving so these services are up and running soon after you’re move in.

Similarly, make arrangements with Canada Post to have your mail redirected to your new residence as soon as possible. If there are other services you require such as: swimming pool, grass cutting, snow removal etc., ask neighbors for recommendations or use Internet advisors to find best local companies.

4. Register Children for School

As part of your pre-move plan, ensure you obtained copies of your children’s school records at your old location. From there, contact the new school they’ll be attending and make an appointment to get your kids registered. Remember that in addition to school records, the new school will need proof that your children have received all their necessary vaccinations. This information should be in the medical records you have on hand or have requested from their doctor beforehand.

5. Register Children for Sports or Other Activities

If your children have been playing sports, contact the local sports league in your new location to see if they can join. Depending on the time of year and other restrictions you may have to wait until a new session starts. For kids taking lessons (piano, gymnastics, karate) ask for instructor and club recommendations from the school or your neighbors.

6. Get Your Pet(s) Settled

Get a recommendation or find a veterinarian near your new area and arrange for a wellness visit for your pets. Copies of their records can be obtained prior to moving, or you can call and have them forwarded. As your pets settles into their new surroundings, keep a closer eye out and make sure they don’t get out and lost. Give them the freedom to roam around the house until they’re familiar with where things are, and keep things like toys and beds on hand to minimize any stress to change.

7. Get Familiar with the Neighborhood and Location

Locate the grocery stores, retail outlets, coffee shops, restaurants and other services you’ll routinely need. Visit local attractions with your family and make an effort to get to know your neighbors. Doing all this will help you feel at home and comfortable in no time.

For more information about moving locally within Calgary, Alberta call our Premiere Van Lines Calgary Branch at 403-250-7015 or contact your closest Premiere Van Lines office today.