Moving into a new home is exciting, but it can also feel like a lot. Between the packing, planning, and cleaning, it’s easy to forget a few key steps. Whether you’re moving across the country or into a quiet neighborhood in Trenton, New Jersey, those first few days matter more than you might think. Before you get too comfortable, there are some essential things you should take care of to make your new place feel safe, clean, and ready to live in.
Here are eight things you don’t want to skip after moving in.
1. Do a Full Walkthrough Before You Unpack
Start with a full walkthrough of your home. Check every room before you bring in furniture or unpack boxes. Look for cracks in the walls, leaks, damaged outlets, or anything else that might have gone unnoticed during the buying or rental process. Turn on all the lights, test each outlet, flush the toilets, and check faucets for water pressure.
This is also a good time to check for pests. Homes that sit vacant for even a short time can attract insects or rodents. Look for droppings, odd smells, or chewed materials. If you suspect a pest issue, don’t wait. Call a local professional like Greenix Pest Control Trenton to inspect and treat the home. They understand the common pest problems in the area and can take care of them before they get worse.
2. Change All Locks and Access Codes
You never know who has a copy of the keys to your new place. For peace of mind, replace the locks on all doors. Even if the previous owners or tenants seemed trustworthy, it’s smart to make sure only you and your household have access.
If the home has a garage keypad or smart lock system, reset the codes. This is also a great time to consider basic upgrades like installing a video doorbell or adding motion lights to the exterior. You don’t have to invest in a full security system right away, but a few small changes can make a big difference in how safe you feel.
3. Deep Clean the Entire Home
Before you unpack your belongings or arrange your furniture, give the house a deep clean. Even if it looks clean, you never know what’s been missed. Start with high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathrooms. Clean inside cabinets, scrub countertops, sanitize sinks, and clean the toilet and tub thoroughly.
Move on to the rest of the house. Wipe down windows, dust light fixtures, and vacuum or mop all the floors. If the carpets seem dirty, consider renting a carpet cleaner or hiring a professional. A fresh, clean home makes everything else about the move more enjoyable.
4. Set Up Utilities and Internet Service
No one wants to move in and realize they forgot to set up the electricity. Make sure all your utilities are active before move-in day. This includes power, water, gas, and trash pickup. Double-check that everything works properly once you’re in the house.
Don’t forget the internet. Contact your provider in advance to schedule installation or transfer service. You’ll likely need Wi-Fi for work, school, or entertainment right away, so having it set up early makes the transition smoother.
5. Test Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Safety should be a top priority when moving into a new home. Go around and test every smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector. Replace any dead batteries, and if a unit seems old or non-functional, get a new one.
There should be at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home. Also, check for a fire extinguisher—especially in the kitchen. If one isn’t already there, buy one and make sure everyone knows where it is. This is also a good time to learn where your water, gas, and power shut-offs are located.
6. Look for Plumbing Issues
Plumbing problems often go unnoticed until they turn into something bigger. Run every faucet and check for leaks underneath the sinks. Watch for water pooling, strange smells, or slow drains. Flush the toilets and check that they refill correctly.
Also, look at the ceilings and walls for any signs of water stains or bubbling paint, which could point to hidden leaks. If you find anything unusual, get it checked out sooner rather than later. Even small plumbing issues can lead to expensive damage if left alone.
7. Find the Electrical Panel and Label It
Locate your home’s electrical panel. Open it and see if the breakers are already labeled. If they aren’t, test and label them yourself so you know which switch controls what. This is helpful in case a circuit trips in the future.
Also, take time to find the thermostat, water heater, and any other systems you’ll be using regularly. Understanding how these things work early on can prevent stress when something isn’t functioning right.
8. Start a Home Project and Maintenance List
You’ll probably notice small things you’d like to change or update. Maybe it’s painting a wall, installing shelves, or swapping outdated fixtures. Start a running list of future projects. Write down what you want to do, how urgent it is, and a rough cost or timeline.
At the same time, think about regular maintenance tasks. Mark down when you’ll need to replace air filters, check gutters, or service appliances. Staying organized will help you manage your home better and avoid surprises down the road.
Those early days in a new home can be hectic, but taking care of these essentials first makes the rest easier. It’s tempting to jump straight into decorating or arranging furniture, but handling these key steps gives you peace of mind. You’ll know your space is clean, safe, and ready to live in.
With these tasks behind you, you’ll be able to enjoy your new home with fewer worries. You’ve done the hard part—now it’s time to focus on making memories, creating cozy corners, and settling into a space that’s truly yours.