Move-in responsibilities

YOURS

Arrive in good time
If possible, arrange removals for the day after so that you don’t feel pressurised
Read the CA move-in guide so that you know what to expect
Allow the Allocations Officer (AO) to do their job – the new contract has made some significant changes
Check that: the bins are present, all windows and doors have keys, window restrictors work and safety certificates are in-date. Turn the heating on and check that the radiators are working and there’s hot water
Check that the cooker, shower and taps work
Check each room thoroughly using the CA tick sheet as a guide
Take photos of any issues
Any faults or cleaning issues must be recorded on the paperwork along with what the AO intends to do to rectify the problem within 24 hours – even if this has been discussed verbally
Existing issues such as stains or chips should be noted on your 14-day report to ensure that you are not charged at move-out
When you sign the form, you are signing to accept that the SFA is at move-in standard. It’s vitally important to ensure that all issues are on the paperwork – giving you an audit trail for any future complaints.

THEIRS

That the SFA is at the move-in standard. The AO should have checked the SFA several days before your move-in
The AO will allow up to an hour for the move-in
They will take you to each room, show that everything works (windows, locks, heating, cooker etc) and where the stopcock and gas emergency cut-off are
The AO will note any issues on the paperwork and will arrange for any recorded issues to be resolved within 24-hours
You will be left with the relevant safety certificates and operating instructions for appliances
The AO will record meter readings or oil levels
The AO will ask you to sign the paperwork accepting the house – ensure that all issues are noted before you sign
If there is an unexpected issue that cannot be fixed and you can’t move-in, such as an uninhabitable fault, the AO will arrange alternative accommodation. This may be another SFA or a hotel.