Share this page
Print this page:
Add this page to:
Britons are 'poorly-prepared movers'
30/07/10
Edited by Bob Witham.The Post Office is urging households to get their ducks in a row before packing up their possessions after new research revealed Britain is a nation of "poorly prepared movers".
According to its analysis, the most popular date for moving to a new home is September 1st, followed by the last weekends in July and August.
Over half (51 per cent) of those surveyed admitted to falling out with friends and family during the process - and with stress levels possibly heightened by leaving arrangements until the last minute.
The Post Office said 42 per cent of households do not cancel bills or notify utility suppliers of their move until a week or less before they go.
Yet over a quarter (26 per cent) buy furniture ahead of picking up the keys for their new abode and 15 per cent start mulling over home improvements and decorating up to a month beforehand.
Hugh Stacey, head of Post Office HomePhone, said: "Our findings show a surprisingly large number of people make little or no effort to plan their move in advance, despite it being a huge life event."
According to Halifax, the average cost of a new home was £166,203 in June.
