Moving in
Moving in
First, we’d like to say thank you for accepting our offer to rent one of our properties. We hope you’re comfortable there and enjoy making it your home.
Your moving date
It can take a few weeks for us to get the property ready for you to move into. We’ll let you know your moving date as soon as we can.
What to expect – our standard for new rented homes
Our empty home standard tells you what you can expect the condition of the property to be like when you move in.
Accepting non-standard items
Sometimes previous tenants have added non-standard items like sheds and electric showers. You’ll be asked if you want to accept these. If you do, you’ll be responsible for them from then on. If you don’t, we’ll remove them before you move in.
Once you’ve got your keys, there’s a few things you’ll need to get set up.
If you have any questions or problems, please contact us.
Using your heating system
Once you’ve moved in, please contact Oakray, our heating specialists and arrange a convenient appointment for them to come and start up your heating system and show you how it works. Just call our main number and press option 1 to speak to Oakray.
Gas and electric
When you first move in, the gas and electric will be with Scottish and Southern Electric (SSE). Please send them meter readings.
You can change supplier, and we’d encourage you to check which companies can provide you with the best deal. Use a comparison website such as uSwitch, as well as checking money saving expert.
Water
Affinity Water is the supplier to most of our homes, but if you’re unsure please contact us.
If your home doesn’t have a water meter, you’ll pay your water charges to us.
If your home has a water meter, the supplier will bill you directly. Please let them know when you’re moving in.
Your welcome visit
After you’ve been in your new home for 3 weeks we’ll arrange a welcome visit. This is just to:
- Make sure you’re settled in your new home
- Answer any questions
- Make sure any problems or outstanding repairs are addressed
Our properties come unfurnished, undecorated and usually without carpets and other furnishings. Unlike many private landlords, we’re happy for you to decorate and furnish your home yourself.
Here are a few things you’ll need to know and ideas that can help you decorate and furnish your new home without breaking the bank.
Painting and filling
Before painting, fill any small holes and dents you find in the walls using common wall filler. Always clear rooms if you can before painting.
Carpets and flooring
Generally our properties come without carpets or other floor coverings. It’s always a good idea to have carpets or flooring fitted after other decorating to avoid staining.
Appliances and furniture
Our properties are unfurnished. This means they don’t come with curtains, cookers, washing machines, fridges, freezers, dishwashers, sofas or any other furnishings.
Keeping the cost down
If you’re buying new items (especially expensive ones) compare prices between shops and websites. Remember to take your time. These purchases may be some of the biggest you will make.
Here are a couple of organisations that can help you get the things you need cheaply or even free:
- Preen website. Provides affordable reused furniture and household goods to the general public and gives discounts to people on low incomes and the elderly
- Freecycle website. Matching people who have things they want to get rid of with people who can use them
Need some extra help?
If you’re struggling to afford to decorate and furnish your home, get appliances or flooring please let us know. We can refer you to local support services or offer support through our settle comfort fund.