Depending on your circumstances, you may need to give your new address to the following:

• bank or building society;
• benefits office;
• dentist;
• doctor;
• optician;
• employer;
• local council, to make arrangements to pay Council Tax;
• TV licence authority;
• phone company;
• driving licence vehicle registration certificate;
• web-based services.

As a resident, you are responsible for paying your own gas, electricity and water bills. You should make a note of the meter readings for gas, electricity and water as soon as you move in. You will need to quote these readings when you register with the utility suppliers. If you have problems reading the meters please contact us.

If you do not take meter readings, you may have to pay the utilities bill of the previous resident.

You will need to know where your gas and electricity meters are located in case of an emergency. See maintenance for information on gas and electric safety and what to do in case of an emergency.

You will need to write to us if you want to install a water meter. However, you will be fully responsible for any installation cost. You might want to consider the financial benefits of installing a water meter. For more information or advice, please contact your local water company.

Please look after the keys to your home. If you lose them, we will be able to change your locks. However, you may be charged for the full cost of replacement.

We do not keep duplicate sets of keys for properties. It is a good idea to get yourself a spare set cut. You can leave it with a friend or relative, in case you lose yours or lock yourself out. Some properties are provided with a key safe – please use this if you have one.