About Campbell River

Relocation Guide:

Okay, that major decision is out of the way! Now you can carry on ...

Purchasing a Home -

• Decide what you want in a neighbourhood! Ask questions. Drive around.
• Make inquiries before you choose a realtor to represent you.
• Ask "the locals" before you choose a lawyer to represent you.
• Decide what you want in a house; make a "wish list" because it can be overwhelming to walk through homes without some basic idea of what you want. One important question: do you want 'stairs'? Think about it.
• Make any offer subject to a satisfactory home inspection.
• Get a "Home Inspection" done by a reputable inspector. Web Site:
  Vancouver Island CAHPI

Moving -

• Contact numerous moving companies for estimates, in writing.
• Remember to ask about each company's insurance coverage.
• If possible, arrange to move in mid-month, which would make scheduling much easier.
• Consider options, such as "pack your own".
• If considering moving yourself (ie renting a truck) be sure to check out insurance coverage for your possessions while in transit!!!

Cancel/Transfer and Set Up New Accounts -

• Notify utilities companies of cancellation or transfer of service and set up accounts in new location.
• Vancouver Island Regional Library - membership can be transferred in new location.
• Drivers' License - change of address must (legally) be done with 14 days of move.
• Dog Licenses - purchase new licenses.
• Property Tax - if near tax time, obtain copy of Property Tax form at the City Hall.

Change of Address -

• Canada Post offers a 6-month forwarding service for about $36.00. Worth checking out.
• In new location stop by Canada Post to arrange for new postal box.
• Include "Elections Canada" in your address change list.

Home Insurance -

• Cancel insurance on your "old" property effective date of sale.
• Purchase insurance on "new" property effective possession date.

By-Laws and Regulations -

• Check out by-laws before you purchase a home. For example, pet ownership might have a limited number of animals per household; there might be a restriction insofar as parking an RV on property, etc.

Interim Accommodations -

• Be sure to arrange 'interim' accommodation (e.g. motel or hotel) in advance so that you are not caught by surprise with nowhere to go!
• This is especially important if you have pets in your family!