12 Things To Do After Moving Into A New Home (2024)

Congratulations! You have successfully moved into your new home. I hope you followed our ultimate moving checklist. Now that the moving process is behind you, it's time to focus on settling into your new house and making it feel like home. Moving into a new house can be overwhelming, so we have created a well-organized new house checklist of what to do after moving, so you can easily navigate this exciting time.

Inspect all the boxes

You've made it through the whirlwind of the moving process, but the journey isn't over yet. Before diving into the unpacking process, it's crucial to take a moment to inspect all your moving boxes carefully. After all, your belongings have travelled a considerable distance to reach your new address, and ensuring they've arrived intact is very important.

You need to resist the temptation to rush into unpacking without assessing the condition of your boxes. While the movers or you may have handled them with care, bumps during transit can potentially lead to damage. By conducting a thorough inspection upfront, you'll be able to address any issues promptly, saving you time and frustration down the line.

As you inspect each box, consider whether its contents align with your packing list. While it is common for items to shift slightly during transit, significant discrepancies may indicate issues that need to be addressed.

If you discover any damaged or missing items, don't panic. Take photos as evidence, and contact your moving company or insurance provider to file a claim if necessary. Keep detailed records of your communications and any reimbursement or compensation received.

Unpack and Organize

Once you've completed your inspection and addressed any concerns, it's time to prioritize your unpacking process. Start with essential items like toiletries, bedding, and kitchenware to ensure your immediate comfort and convenience. Then, gradually work your way through all your boxes, tackling one room at a time to maintain organization and efficiency.

Remember, unpacking is not a race; it's a journey. Take breaks as needed to rest and recharge, and don't hesitate to enlist the help of friends or family members if feeling overwhelmed. Hiring a reliable and trustworthy moving company that provides packing and unpacking services will also alleviate the stress of unpacking. With patience, perseverance, and a methodical approach, you'll soon transform your new house into a place you're proud to call home.

Set Up Your Utilities

Setting up your utilities after moving is a crucial step in making your new living space truly feel like home. But where do you start? First things first, familiarize yourself with the utility companies in your area. Whether it's electricity, water, gas, internet, or cable, knowing who to contact will streamline the process.

Once you've identified the necessary services, it's time to transfer utilities from your old address to your new one (you should have done this before the move in day). This ensures uninterrupted access to essential amenities from the moment you step foot into your new abode. Remember to schedule these transfers well in advance to avoid any last-minute hiccups.

Do a thorough inspection (Test Your Smoke Detectors And HVAC System)

Ensuring everything is in working order is crucial before settling into your new abode. One of the first tasks on your home checklist should be to conduct a thorough inspection, paying close attention to essential safety features such as smoke detectors and your HVAC system.

Start by checking your smoke detectors to ensure they are functioning correctly. Press the test button to confirm the alarm sounds, indicating that the batteries are operational and the sensor is responsive. Remember to replace batteries regularly to maintain optimal functionality.

Additionally, inspect your carbon monoxide detector to safeguard against this silent but deadly gas. Test it according to the manufacturer's instructions and replace the batteries if needed. Next, turn your attention to your HVAC system. Check air filters for dirt and debris, replacing them if necessary to maintain indoor air quality and system efficiency. Inspect the fuse box to ensure all circuits are labelled correctly and that none have tripped during the move.

Finally, run a test of your heating and cooling systems to verify they are working properly. By conducting a thorough inspection of these essential components, you'll ensure the safety and comfort of your new home for you and your loved ones.

Change House Locks

As you settle into your new surroundings, it's essential to prioritize safety measures that will protect you and your loved ones. Think of this: how many people had access to your home before you moved in? From previous owners to real estate agents, contractors, or neighbours, there's no telling who might possess a key to your new house. By installing new locks, you regain control over who has access to your home, eliminating any potential security risks associated with unknown keyholders.

Install a Home Security System

If your new place comes with a security system installed, it's time to update those access codes. Taking these proactive steps will offer you safety, comfort, and peace of mind, letting you sleep soundly in your new home.

Set Up Safety Measures For Kids And Pets

Conduct a thorough assessment of your new home by identifying potential hazards and areas of concern. From exposed electrical outlets to steep staircases and toxic plants, it's essential to pinpoint any potential dangers that could pose a risk to curious children and pets.

Once you've identified potential hazards, take proactive steps to mitigate risks and create a safe environment for your family and pets. Implementing childproofing measures, such as securing cabinets and furniture anchors, can prevent accidents and injuries caused by curious little hands. Likewise, installing safety gates and window guards can help prevent falls and other accidents, providing peace of mind for parents and caregivers.

When it comes to your pets, consider their unique needs and behaviours when implementing safety measures. From crate training to securing outdoor spaces with sturdy fencing, there are various steps you can take to ensure the well-being of your pets in their new environment. Additionally, be mindful of potential household toxins, such as cleaning products and plants, that could pose a danger to curious pets. By proactively addressing these concerns, you can create a safe and nurturing space for your entire family to thrive.

Recycle Packing Supplies

During the whirlwind of unpacking, you might find yourself surrounded by mountains of cardboard boxes, bubble wrap, and packing paper. Instead of letting these materials clutter your space or end up in the trash, why not give them a second life? Recycling packing supplies not only helps declutter your home but also contributes to environmental sustainability. Besides, it's a budget-friendly alternative to purchasing new materials for your upcoming move.

Clean Your New House

Unpacking will also you with tons of garbage, dust, and dirt. That is why cleaning your new house is an essential step in making it feel like home sweet home. While the excitement of moving in may be evident, the dust and grime left behind by previous occupants can quickly put a damper on your enthusiasm. With a well-planned cleaning strategy and the right cleaning supplies at your disposal, you can transform your new space in no time.

Whether you prefer to tackle the task yourself or enlist the help of a professional cleaning service, having a comprehensive to-do list and essential cleaning supplies on hand is key to achieving that fresh finish. From wiping down surfaces to vacuuming floors and sanitizing bathrooms, each step you take brings you closer to settling into your new address with comfort and peace of mind.

Update Your Address

Moving to a new address comes with a lot of mundane tasks and one of them is updating your home address. Start by visiting your local post office, where you can fill out a change of address form to redirect your mail to your new residence. This simple step ensures that important documents, bills, and correspondence find their way to your doorstep without delay.

Additionally, don't forget to update your address on your driver's license and online with other service providers, including bank accounts, your insurance company and credit card company utilities, subscription services, and social security administration/tax agency. By proactively managing your mailing address, you can avoid the headache of missed deliveries and ensure that your transition to your new home is seamless.

Furnish and Decorate Your New Home

Furnishing and decorating your new home is the moment when the house truly starts to feel like yours, transforming it from a mere structure into a haven of comfort and personal expression.

Whether you're drawn to sleek modern aesthetics, cozy rustic vibes, or vibrant eclectic designs, there's no shortage of ways to make your house feel like home. From selecting the perfect furniture pieces to curating art and accents that reflect your taste, each decision contributes to the ambiance and warmth of your living space.

Meet Your Neighbors

Everybody needs a bit of guidance when placed in a completely unfamiliar environment. New house, new neighbourhood, new city, new province – it’ll take some time before this strange sense of unfamiliarity goes away.

Your neighbours are the individuals who will become your first friends in your new community, offering a sense of belonging. So, don't hesitate to take that first step and introduce yourself. A simple knock on the door or a friendly wave can pave the way for meaningful connections and lasting friendships.

Whether it's bonding over shared interests or exchanging recommendations for the best local coffee shops, your neighbours are an invaluable resource for navigating life in your new city. Embrace the opportunity to cultivate these relationships and watch as your new community begins to feel like home.