Moving to a Rural Location?

 -- 10 Tips for Making a Tree Change --

* Today's article about moving to rural locations was submitted by Sachin

Tips for making a tree change include knowing what to do in the fire season, being wary of snakes, knowing to adjust for country driving and get involved with your local community.

If you have decided to make the big move out to live in the country then there are a few things you should be aware of.  Other than finding a reputable removalist company to transport all your possessions and furniture to your new home, you should also be aware that living in a rural area can be very different from living in the city.  Don't forget that your new home will need to have home and contents insurance.

Fire season

You need to be aware that when living in a rural area the fire season can be a potential threat to your property.  If you live near bushland or even if you are on a farm, you can still be susceptible to bush fires.  Protect your property by getting ready for fire season.  Have a plan, clear all flammable materials away from around your home and pack an emergency survival kit.

Snakes

Snakes are a common sight in the bush and on rural properties.  They will tend to get out of your way, so you don't usually see them much, but you can come across them unexpectedly.  There are many poisonous snakes in Australia, so if you see one stay right away.  Careful when going through long grass and avoid having things like piles of wood close to the house, as well as leaving water around, which snakes are attracted to.

Water supply

Sometimes you can be on town water when you live on a rural property but sometimes you are too far out and need to have your own water supply.  Having as many water tanks as you can afford is a good idea.  Try and have a tank for each building, so that you get the maximum catchment off roofs, such as the roof of your house, any sheds or other buildings.

Gas bottles

You won't have access to gas services either in a remote area so if you want to have gas you will need a large gas tank, which the gas company will send around a gas tanker to fill every so often.

Septic tanks

Your sewerage will also not be connected to the main services that they have in a town so you will need a septic tank.  These will need to emptied every now and then, which you hire a professional company to do.

Driving

Driving in the country is very different to driving in the city.  There are no street lights and often roads are narrow.  You could find that you need to do a lot of driving on gravel roads.   Adjust to your new conditions, being extra careful until you become more used to country driving.

Post service

Note that some rural areas don't have a postal delivery service for properties in more remote areas.  You will need a post office box at the closest town, which is where you will have to go and collect your mail.

Rubbish bins

Unlike city dwellers you will find that you might not have the luxury of a rubbish collection service.  Little things that you do take for granted are sometimes no available so don't be surprised if you have to dispose of your own rubbish.  This could mean having your own tip, which is basically a large hole that you throw your rubbish in and eventually bury it.  If you have a larger property you would make your tip a distance from the house.

Get to know your neighbours

The best thing you can do when living in the country is make friends with your neighbours.  It is good to have your neighbours there when you need help, plus if you are a long distance from town it is good to have the extra company. 

Community

Another great thing to do is become a part of the community.  Volunteer, attend community events and become involved in what goes on around your local town.

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