New Homeowner Checklist

Make moving a pleasant experience by following these recommendations when you move in to your new home.

Set up Utilities before Move-In

It’s important to have the utilities (water, gas and electricity) turned on before your move-in date. For local moves, it may be possible to simply transfer your current service to your new home.

Change your Locks

Even though the previous owners have turned over the keys to you, there’s the possibility that someone else might have a copy of the keys. Change the locks as soon as possible to make sure your new home is safe.

Locate the Main Circuit Breaker and Water Shutoff Valve

Know where these two master controls are located in case of an emergency. Locate and label each control for easy access. Don’t forget to make sure they stay in good working condition with regular checks and maintenance.

Test Heating and Cooling Systems

While the heating and cooling systems were inspected during your home inspection, it’s a good idea to test them again and learn how they work. Take the time to examine the vents and change the air filters if necessary.

Test all Appliances

While the stove, microwave, oven, washer and dryer were inspected during your home inspection, it’s a good idea to test them again and learn how they work. Keep all the owner’s manuals and warranty information in case an appliance breaks down, needs a replacement part or a simple repair.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Make sure all the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home are working properly. Replace units or change batteries as needed.

Check for General Maintenance

Do a walk-through of your home, examining it for water leaks, cracks, holes in the walls and other general repairs. Don’t forget to check the insulation in your attic and any open spaces in your doors and windows where air can escape. Complete any repairs sooner rather than later to prevent bigger problems down the road.

Create a First-Aid Kit and Emergency Contact List

Make sure everyone in your home knows the location of your first-aid kit in case of an emergency. Keep a list of emergency contacts in your home including numbers for family members as well as local emergency services.

Garbage Collection

Call your local public works department or ask your neighbors what day your garbage is collected. Also ask about recycling services and which receptacles are required.

Change your Address

Set up forwarding services at your old post office to make sure any mail delivered to your old address is forwarded to your new one. Change your address with your bank, employer, driver’s license, voter registration, car registration, insurance companies, credit cards and other important services. Don’t forget to update your online account information too. You may also want to send out change of address cards to your family and friends.