Move-In Checklist

Change locks, check smoke detectors, locate shut-offs, and secure the home before moving belongings in.

1. Change or re-key all exterior door locks (you don't know who has copies of old keys)

2. Test all smoke and CO detectors — replace batteries

3. Locate and label the main water shut-off valve

4. Locate and label the electrical panel — learn how to turn off main breaker

5. Locate gas shut-off valve (if applicable)

6. Check all window locks work

7. Test garage door opener and change the code

8. Check exterior lighting — replace burned-out bulbs

9. Test doorbell

10. Know the address of nearest hospital/emergency room

- Not changing locks (previous owners, realtors, contractors all have keys)

- Dead batteries in smoke detectors

- Not knowing where water shut-off is (critical during pipe burst)

- Not knowing how to shut off gas

- Non-functional window locks

Transfer or establish all utilities. Document meter readings. Set up essential services.

1. Transfer electric, gas, water, and sewer to your name

2. Take photos of all utility meters on move-in day (document starting readings)

3. Set up internet and TV service (schedule install early — popular dates book out)

4. Set up trash and recycling collection

5. Forward mail through USPS (do this 2 weeks before move)

6. Update address with bank, insurance, employer, subscriptions

7. Register with your new municipality if required

8. Check water quality — run taps for a few minutes if house has been vacant

9. Set water heater to 120°F

10. Set thermostat to appropriate temperature

- Utilities not transferred on time (no power on move-in day)

- Not documenting meter readings (charged for previous owner's usage)

- Not forwarding mail (miss important documents)

- Not scheduling internet early (weeks without service)

- Water heater set too high (scald risk)

Document the condition of the home. Keep all manuals, warranties, and important information organized.

1. Take photos/video of every room on move-in day (documents condition for landlords or insurance)

2. Collect all appliance manuals — store in one location

3. Collect warranty information for all systems and appliances

4. File home inspection report and all closing documents in a safe location

5. Create a home maintenance binder or digital folder

6. Note paint colors used in each room (check if previous owner left this info)

7. Document the location of all shut-off valves and clean-outs

8. Keep a list of service providers (plumber, electrician, HVAC) — ask neighbors for recommendations

- No move-in photos (can't prove pre-existing damage)

- Lost appliance manuals (need for service calls)

- Warranty information not organized (can't make claims)

- Important documents scattered or lost

- No record of paint colors (can't touch up matching paint)

- No local service provider contacts when emergency happens