March 26, 2018
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Moving into a new home? Here’s a handy checklist of everything you’ll need to tackle first:
- Transfer (or start new!) utilities. Schedule your electrical, gas, and water service to start at least 3 days before you move in. Then schedule Wi-Fi, phone and cable TV installation.
- Babyproof. If you have children under the age of six, install protection for stairs, windows, drawers, banisters, chemicals and outlets before they set foot in the new home.
- Clean. Clean the kitchen, rugs, floors, cabinets, refrigerator and oven before moving your furniture and appliances in.
- Change all door locks. Don’t risk a theft by a past owner (or renter). Call a professional locksmith, or pick up a kit at your local hardware store.
- Re-program garage door opener. Just like your other doors, you’ll want to re-program the garage door opener. Who knows how many past owners (or renters) still have your garage door openers sitting in their cars?
- Transfer your mail. You can do this at USPS.com/move.
- Locate your new mailbox and key. If the previous owner did not leave a key to a community mailbox, then contact the post office (or your homeowners association office, if you have one).
- Make repairs. Most homes need a few minor repairs, even if they’re brand new—especially if they’ve been sitting empty for awhile.
- Plug in appliances. Make sure the electricity is on first!
- Set water heater to 120°F. This not only lowers your utility bills, but also reduces the risk of hot water burns, especially if you have young children.
- Replace filters in your furnace and A/C unit.
- Refinish wood floors. Now is a great time to buff and seal your wood floors before you move in all your new furniture.
- Paint walls. It’s much easier to paint an empty room before you add furniture.
- Replace carpet (if necessary).
- Find the water valve and fuse box (in case of emergency!).
- Test the smoke alarms. If they’re more than 10 years old, or not working properly, buy a new set from the hardware store.
Protect your new home! We offer excellent rates on homeowner’s insurance from A-rated insurance companies—like Travelers, Kemper, Safeco, and Chubb. Learn more about our HomeServices Insurance.
