The first 5 things to do when moving into a new home

So, the day has finally come and you’re about to move into your new home. While there is sure to be a lot of excitement about this new chapter in your life, you‘ll also have a list of tasks as long as your arm.

Take out the stress of moving day with high-grade splashbacks stockist The Plastic People’s run-down of the five things to do when moving into your new home — everything else can wait until you’re settled.

1. Change the locks

Can you really be sure that a stranger hasn’t got a set of keys to your home? It’s best to err on the side of caution and change the locks on every exterior door for your peace of mind.

Therefore, arrange for a locksmith to be at your home on moving day so that you can get the place secured as soon as possible. They will also be able to get keys cut for everyone who needs them, sorting out that task too.

A spokesperson from a leading Newcastle locksmith called Quick Pick Locksmiths says “When you purchase a home or business or have your insurance renewed your insurer will send you a covering letter stating their minimum requirements. If your locks do not meet these requirements and you have a break in then your insurance company can refuse to pay you a penny!”.

2. Get those utilities running

Electricity, gas and running water are all important utilities that you want to get up and running in your new home as soon as you can. You should have arranged to have these main house utilities connected ahead of moving in.

While we are on the topic of utilities, it is also a good idea to get acquainted with your home’s circuit breaker box so that you know which fuse controls which part of the home in case something goes off unexpectedly. Find the main water valve too, so that you can quickly get to it to turn it off should you ever encounter a plumbing emergency.

3. Clean

Cleaning your new home when the rooms are bare will be a lot easier than doing so once you’ve set up all the furniture. Plus, it allows you to get off to a fresh start.

You should also look to extend your cleaning into your garden if you have one. We aren’t saying that you should work up a sweat turning your garden into an outdoor sanctuary immediately — pulling out the weeds, giving the lawn a cut and installing some lawn edging will be enough to make it look smart while you’re still getting moved in.

4. Unpack the essentials

As you’re going to be carrying everything you own when you move into your new home, unpacking everything at once isn’t going to be practical and, if anything will just leave you stressed.

Instead, put all of the essentials in one or two boxes when packing up to move — think bedding, towels, toiletries, a few kitchen items, some clothes, food, drink and your children’s and pets’ favourite toys — and clearly, label these so you know to unpack them first.  Every other box can be left packed and stored in a spare room or garage until you’re settled.

5. Get to know your new neighbourhood

Don’t think that you need to be holed up in your new home for the entire first day of moving in.

When you begin to tire from all the unpacking and essential chores, take some time away from the work by enjoying a relaxing walk around your neighbourhood. This leisurely stroll will give you the opportunity to see the shops and other businesses that are on your doorstep, as well as hopefully allow you to introduce yourself to a few neighbours.

Before you know it, your new house and neighbourhood will begin to truly feel like home.