Moving into a new home is an exciting time. However, no matter if it’s your first home or your third, there are a few things you should always do once you’re all moved in to help improve your security and safety. Here is a checklist of tasks to take care of right after you move in to make the most of your new home.
CHANGE THE LOCKS
When you move into a new home, you don’t know how many copies of the house keys are out there from the previous homeowners. They may still have a copy, or given a copy to friends, family, or neighbors. Changing the locks in your home soon after moving in will help keep your house more secure.
REPLACE THE FIRE EXTINGUISHER
You never know when you’ll need a fire extinguisher to protect your home against a fire. So it’s even more important to make sure it works in case you ever need it. Some extinguishers don’t have an expiration date, so you don’t know how old it is or if it will work. To be safe, replace the extinguisher right when you move in.
CHANGE SMOKE DETECTOR BATTERIES
Batteries in your smoke detector should be replaced at least once per year. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors will protect you and your family in case of a fire or carbon monoxide leak—and it’s important to know the batteries are charged and the system works.
CHANGE THE FURNACE FILTER
Changing the air filter in your furnace regularly can help prevent dust, dirt, mold, bacteria, and allergens from building up in the air in your home. By changing the filter, you can help keep your indoor air clean and protect your heating system.
SET UP A THERMOSTAT SCHEDULE
By setting your thermostat on a schedule, you can save up to 10% or more on your heating and cooling bills. If you’re not home, turn your thermostat back 7-10 degrees F from the normal setting.
CLEAN THE DRYER VENT
The U.S. Fire Administration reports nearly 3,000 home-dryer fires per year, causing nearly $40 million in property loss. Failure to clean the dryer vent is the leading cause of dryer fires. Take time to clean your dryer vent to help protect your home, and ensure you have a clean dryer for your clothes.
CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS ON EVERYTHING
Start with the USPS to ensure you don’t miss any mail. Have all your mail forwarded, and change your address for any new mail. Also update or notify:
- Credit and debit cards
- DMV (license and registration)
- IRS (Fill out Form 8822 to update your tax information)
- Social Security (if you receive social security or Medicare benefits)
- Voter registration
- Bank and investment services
- Loan issuers
- Account and tax advisors
- Gas and electricity
- Water
- Internet and cable provider
- Insurance: health, dental, life, car, and homeowner or renter’s
- Employer
- Payment services
- Magazine or subscription boxes
JOIN THE NEXT DOOR APP TO CONNECT WITH NEIGHBORS
This app helps you connect with neighbors, local businesses, agencies, and more. Get updated information on local businesses, exchange recommendations or information with neighbors, and stay in the know about events happening in your neighborhood. All neighbors are verified and you can trust Next Door to help you build local connections and exchange helpful information, goods, and services.
DEEP CLEAN THE TOILET
The bathroom and toilet are home to an abundance of bacteria. When you move into a new house, one of the first things you should deep clean is the toilet. Clean and sanitize the outside and inside, and use a disinfecting tablet in the bowl or tank to help keep it fresh.
CELEBRATE
Moving can be stressful, but it’s also fun and exciting! Be sure to take time to celebrate. Whether it’s a quiet dinner for two or a housewarming party with your friends and family, enjoy your new home and everything it has to offer.
