6 Things to do When Setting Up your New Home

Moving into a new house comes with a slew of tasks that, if completed haphazardly, may not turn out well. These responsibilities include everything from setting up utilities to installing new security systems. It is beneficial to make a to-do list and prioritize tasks based on their importance. Planning ensures that chores are completed in a systematic manner, saving time and reducing the amount of work required to set up your new home.

However, before you get your hands dirty, perform some preliminary work such as inspecting for plumbing leaks, roof leaks, and crawl spaces. It is also simpler to replace ripped flooring while the house is empty. If you are happy with the house’s condition, you can do the following:

Setup the Utilities

Utilities are part of the foundation of your new home. Begin by notifying the utility companies and requesting that they update their records with your information as the new homeowner/renter. Setting up utilities like electricity ensures that you don’t find yourself in the dark after a long day of housework. Request that utilities such as electricity, gas, water, sewer, trash, heating, and cooling be transferred to your name. Make sure your internet and phone are both operational so you can stay connected to the outside world.

Locate the Water Valve and Fuse Box

Aside from security, plumbing and electrical failures cause the majority of home emergencies. In the event of a power outage or plumbing disaster, your first line of defense will be your electrical fuse box and main water valve. Almost every home has one main shut-off valve near the water meter. By locating and making these control systems easily accessible, you can prevent or reduce the severity of accidents or mitigate emergencies. Keep furniture out of the way of such access areas when arranging the house.

Change or Rekey the Locks

Every home must have excellent security features. Whether you are moving into a newly built home or one that has previously been occupied, there is a good chance that someone else has the keys. As a result, it is critical that you replace the locks, preferably with more advanced smart locks. The other option is rekeying the existing locks. Smart locks are very convenient because you don’t have to carry keys around, and you can modify the access codes to regulate who has entry to your home at any time. To optimize security, you can also install other smart accessories like cameras, motion detectors, and doorbells. Make sure to consult with a trusted residential locksmith service near you to get recommendations for the best smart security systems for your home. Such professionals can also audit your new home for security loopholes.

Thorough Cleaning Before Moving In

Your first cleaning is critical because it is the only time you can reach all of the corners without being obstructed by furniture or electronic setups. It is also the best time to inspect for pest infestations. This is also an excellent time to clean your refrigerator and replace your furnace filters. You can also use mineral spirits to give old furniture a new look. Start with the ceiling and work your way down. Finish by thoroughly cleaning the floor.

Update Your Address

Remember to update your address for any essential services you may require. This includes updating the billing address on your credit card for all services that use it. To avoid future problems, do the same with your bank and insurance company. Sharing your new address with friends and family makes you not only accessible, but also trackable in case of an emergency. You may also need to update some of your coworkers.

Inspect Repairs

During the inspection phase, you may have discovered some broken things around the house. Some may be more urgent than others, so you must prioritize correctly. It is all too easy to overlook the sump pump, but a nonfunctioning one can cause havoc during a rainy season. Sump pumps frequently fail after long periods of inactivity. Also, make sure your smoke detectors are operational. Check the expiration dates on your smoke detectors and replace them as necessary to keep your home safe from fire.

Final Thoughts

Depending on the design of the house, different homeowners may have slightly different needs. However, this list reflects the most basic concerns. If you complete each stage successfully, your new home should be comfortable and safe for you to live in. After completing any other tasks inside the house, take a walk around the neighborhood to locate essential facilities such as hospitals, schools, and grocery stores. Finally, you may interact with your immediate neighbors to inform them of your new address, not only to make new friends but also as a security precaution.