Make a handover record
At the agreed handover, record the electricity, gas and water meter readings where accessible, with dated photographs. Collect recent bills, equipment manuals, keys, access cards and any maintenance contacts the seller agrees to provide. Check which services are active and whether any contract is due to end. Keep this practical inventory separate from the legal deed so each missing item can be followed up with the right person.
Change the correct supply contract
For electricity, CNMC guidance identifies the CUPS supply-point code as a key item for a change of holder, alongside identity and account details. Match the code and address carefully to the home or garage concerned. Ask the provider which documents it needs and whether an account change or a new connection is appropriate. Water procedures depend on the local supplier. Save confirmations and review the first bills for dates and readings.
Describe the real use to the insurer
Tell the insurer whether the home will be your main residence, a holiday property, vacant during works or rented out. Ask which buildings, contents, liability and assistance cover you are choosing, with their exclusions and limits. If a lender requires cover, compare the proposed policy with the lending conditions. Confirm when the policy starts and whether communal insurance leaves parts of your individual risk uncovered.
Introduce yourself to the community
Give the administrator or community contact the ownership change and the details needed for notices and payments. Request the current budget, payment schedule, recent minutes and practical rules for access, works and communal facilities. Ask about scheduled projects and who handles emergencies. Check the first charges against the information provided during the purchase. If you live abroad, agree a reliable way to receive notices and monitor upcoming decisions.
- Store emergency contacts somewhere accessible without internet.
- Check that notices reach an address you actively monitor.
Sources & further reading
CNMC — Changing supply contract details ↗DGSFP — Home insurance linked to mortgages ↗Editorial preview: professional legal review is pending. This guide provides general information and does not determine the legal position of a particular property.
Have a property in mind?
Start by organising its documents and the questions still to resolve.