No day without the internet when you’re moving house: here’s how to sort it out

Moving house requires careful preparation. You’ve already bought the moving boxes, the handover of the keys is scheduled, and you’ve got a list of organisations you need to notify about your move. But have you thought about your internet connection? For many people, a fast internet connection has become a basic necessity. You’ll want to be able to watch TV online and work from home straight away after your move. How can you ensure you’re online straight away after moving house?

Notify your provider of your move

As soon as you know when you’re moving, you can let your internet provider know. If you have an active contract, you’re required to transfer your internet package to your new address. The provider will ensure that your internet connection is transferred on the moving date. Don’t have a contract yet? Then it’s best to compare providers via a comparison site such as ProviderCheck.nl, and then choose the most affordable and suitable provider for your new address.

Don’t leave it too long. Processing your application and connecting any new equipment can take a few weeks. If you take action in good time, everything will be sorted before you spend your first night in your new home.

Fibre-optic or DSL?

Important: fibre-optic broadband isn’t available everywhere yet. Some homes already have it, whilst others only have cable internet or a DSL connection. You should therefore check in advance what options are available at your new address.

This will give you a clear picture of the available speeds and any changes to your subscription. You might be able to switch to a faster connection at your new address, or you might be limited to a smaller package.

Plan the connection around your moving date

Agree with your provider on the date from which the internet connection at your new address needs to be active. It’s handy if this date is around the day you actually move house. For example, if you’re planning to move on a Saturday, it’s nice to have your home internet up and running by Friday.

That way, you can start using your devices as soon as you’ve unpacked them. It’s a real relief not to have to wait days for a technician or for the connection to be set up. This means you can enjoy your new home straight away, without having to sort out practical matters first.

Don’t forget your own equipment either

Many families still use quite a bit of their own equipment alongside their provider’s equipment. Think of your modem, router, TV set-top box and any Wi-Fi extenders. Before you move, you should check them over and, ideally, pack them separately.

Try to keep cables and accessories together. That way, you won’t have to search for the right connection after the move. A separate box for your internet equipment can save you a lot of time at a time when you already have so many other things to sort out.

What about Wi-Fi in your new home?

One thing that varies from home to home is the Wi-Fi connection. Not every home automatically has optimal Wi-Fi coverage. For example, the location of your modem has a big impact on the range. If it’s in a locked meter cupboard or on one side of the property, the signal may be weaker in other areas or on the other side of the property.

That’s why it’s a good idea to first work out where you’ll be using the internet most. Do you regularly work from home? Or do you watch a lot of TV online? If so, first work out the best spot for your router and where you might need to install some Wi-Fi extenders or a mesh system.

Take your time when switching providers

Is your contract about to expire? If so, it’s a good idea to take another look at your current internet subscription. It could well be that your current subscription no longer meets your needs. A larger home, for example, may require a better Wi-Fi solution or a faster connection.

So, if you’re thinking of switching, take your time to compare the options. Don’t just look at the speed, but also at the terms and conditions, customer service and the extra services included with a plan. That way, you’ll make a choice that suits your new situation.

Moving into a new-build home? Please note!

With a new-build home, setting up your internet connection can sometimes work differently. It’s not always a given that the connection will already be working when you receive the keys. That’s why it’s a good idea to find out in advance when the property will be connected.

If you contact your provider in good time, you’ll know what steps still need to be taken. That way, you can better plan for any work that might be required and avoid being temporarily without internet.

What if your internet isn’t working yet?

Sometimes it isn’t possible to have an internet connection up and running on time. A connection may still need to be installed, or you may need a technician. In that case, a temporary solution can be useful.

For example, you could start by using mobile internet via your data allowance or a temporary hotspot. Some providers also offer temporary solutions, such as a mobile internet package for home use. That way, you’ll remain reachable and can still sort out important matters online until your fixed connection is up and running.