10 Things to Do Before Moving into A New Home

Moving into a new home is an exciting time, but the process can add a lot of extra tasks to your already crowded to-do list. To save you time and stress down the road, we recommend you include each of the tasks covered in this article in your move-in timeline.

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1. Utility Connections: Guarantee that essential utilities, such as water, gas, electricity, and internet, are registered under your name. Experiencing a lack of hot water or electricity on your first night is far from ideal. Protect your comfort, credit and security by tackling this before you move in.
2. Safety Check: Make sure smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and carbon monoxide detectors are positioned optimally and are all in good working order. Replace them without delay if not, as safety always takes precedence. Look for any places that don’t have adequate safety measures in place, and fill in those gaps as soon as you can find the time to do so. Here’s a helpful checklist.
3. Security Check: Begin by changing the locks on all exterior doors. You can never be certain who might possess a spare key from the previous owner. Anyone from extended family and neighbors to past contractors, dog walkers, babysitters and old friends could be holding keys to your new home. You get the idea. Any insurance agent will likely tell you that replacing the locks is not overkill.
4. Locate Utility Shut-offs: Familiarize yourself with the positions of the primary water shut-off valve, gas shut-off, electrical panel and utility meters. Knowing how to shut off the utilities is essential for emergencies or maintenance.
5. Thorough Cleaning: Regardless of the condition left by the previous occupants, it’s a good idea to block out a day or more before move-in to provide your new home with a detailed cleaning. Once you’re moved in it will never be as easy to get into every nook and cranny. You might even learn a few helpful things about your new home that you hadn’t noticed during inspections.
6. Homeowner’s Insurance Review: Assess your homeowner’s insurance policy coverage and ensure it meets all your expectations. Adjustments may be necessary based on your property and personal preferences.
7. Establish A Home Maintenance Plan: Construct a maintenance timetable for your home. Consistent upkeep can avert costly repairs in the future. Tasks such as gutter cleaning, HVAC system servicing, and leak checks should be part of your annual routine.
8. Prioritize Upgrades: While personalizing your new space might be tempting, prioritize essential upgrades. Begin with important repairs or safety enhancements before expanding your attention to cosmetic changes like redecorating.
9. Update Your Address: Remember to update your address with important contacts like your bank, employer, insurance companies and the post office. Set up your mail to forward to the new address to prevent missing important documents. This can usually be done easily online.
10. Meet Your Neighbors: Cultivating a relationship with your neighbors can be invaluable. They can offer helpful insights about the neighborhood and may even become friends who can lend a hand in times of need.

As you make your way through the many projects and tasks associated with moving into a new home, remember that a little upfront effort will pay for itself multiple times over in the long-run. You’re laying the foundation for a secure and enjoyable long-term home ownership experience!

Check out our moving checklist for a more tips on how to prepare for your big move!