Congratulations! You’ve got your keys and now you can start making your home your own. You should have received a copy of your tenancy agreement and a sign-up pack which will include everything you need to know about your home and having a happy tenancy with us.
Getting a new home is exciting, but we know that there are a lot of things to sort out before you can settle in. Read our top tips to make it a little easier:
1. Contact your energy suppliers
When you first move in your gas and electricity supplier will be OVO Energy. You can pick your own supplier and switch over from the day you move in, so have a look around to find the best deal for you.
During your sign up meeting you will also have received a moving in checklist with important information such as your address and postcode and your gas and electricity meter readings. Your new supplier will need these so make sure you have them to hand before you get in touch with them.
Remember you'll need to pay OVO for all the energy you used from the day you move in until the day the new supplier takes over.
We recommend asking your supplier for smart meters if you don’t have them. This will help you monitor your usage and save you money. Click here to find out more ways to save money and energy.
2. Reconnect your gas supply
If you have a gas supply it will be disconnected when you move in. You’ll need to contact us on 0345 60 20 540 to have your gas supply reconnected, this is known as a turn on and test appointment. You’ll usually have to wait two working days from the time you contact us for an appointment, so plan ahead where you can.
When we reconnect your gas supply we’ll also carry out your first gas safety check. Make sure you’ve set up a Direct Debit with your energy supplier or have at least £5 worth of credit on both your gas and electricity meters before the contractor arrives.
3. Be aware of building safety procedures
Flush your water system - When you move in, it’s best if you ‘flush’ the water system through before you use the water in the taps. Turn your heating on for two hours and then run all taps (and the shower if you have one) for 3 - 5 minutes.
Learn your evacuation procedure - If your home has shared areas you'll need to understand your evacuation procedure so you know what to do in the event of a fire. You can find the evacuation procedure for your block on the notice boards in communal areas. Remember not to use the lift in the event of a fire.
Get rid of any rubbish - You’ll probably have some rubbish to dispose of after you’ve unpacked. Please make sure you use the correct bins and do not block up any communal areas. Contact your local council to find out when your bin day is and order any missing bins.
Take out home content insurance - We don't cover your furniture or personal belongings against theft, fire, damage or floods so we recommend taking out an insurance policy to make sure your belongings are protected. We have an insurance plan with Royal & Sun Alliance plc, which is exclusive to our residents. Click here to find out more.
4. Update your details
If you receive benefits you’ll need to let them know your new address and rent details on the start date of your tenancy. If making a new claim for Universal Credit, there will be a five week wait until you get your first payment. During this time, you can ask for an advance payment which you’ll need to repay.
You can also get Royal Mail to redirect any mail that goes to your old address to your new address for a fee. Click here to find out more.
5. Connect with us online
Download our app - With our free app you can securely manage your rent account anytime, anywhere on your smartphone or tablet. The app is available to all customers, search ‘Midland Heart’ on the Apple or Android app store or click here.
Follow us on social media - We share lots of useful information and post regular updates on our social media channels. Follow us on Facebook or Twitter to make sure you're kept up to date.
