Moving Home Checklist

Moving can be a stressful time. Even when you’re finally setting up in your new home and you’re ready to rest, you need to set up various things to start getting comfortable. You may think the brunt of work should be over now, but you’ll be able to enjoy your new place much better if you get some big steps out of the way first. 

To make things easier on you, simply work your way through this checklist of essential things to do right as you move.

Make Sure All the Paperwork is Settled

The last thing you need is legal issues, especially since a move will already put enough on your plate. Make sure you have a residential property lawyer to help you sort out all of your ownership paperwork. This is necessary whether you are selling your previous home, buying a new home, or both.  

It’s also a good idea to ensure you’ve got the billing system and information in order at your new place. Talk to the previous owner to make sure utilities are billed to you and that there is no balance left from their time there. 

Sweep Through the Property

This means a visual sweep, of course. Simply do a thorough inspection as you walk through the entire property once more. Do this before unpacking anything and setting up so you can get a feel for the space and make sure that everything is as it should be. 

If you have specific agreements with the previous owner, this is the time to make sure they came through. This can reveal any issues that weren’t present in your initial viewing and any possible breaches against your sale contract.

Conduct a Deep Clean

Now, you can do the literal clean sweep. A good and thorough deep cleaning will help you make sure that everything is spick and span. It’s more extensive than a general cleaning, so you can rest assured that any built-up germs and dirt will be tackled. This should also give you a great clean slate to start with.

Double Check the Plumbing and Electrics

You’ll want to ensure that all the outlets, wiring, plumbing and lighting fixtures, switches, and pipes are working as intended. You should also check out where your water valves and fuse box are and make sure they are accessible. 

Figure Out Your Layout

You’ll have a much less painful time sorting your furniture and belongings if you have already mapped out your layout for each room. Consider where each item will be placed so you can put the corresponding boxes in the right rooms. You should also have an idea of the placement so you can just haul the furniture to the actual area where it will be set up. 

Install Any Pet or Child Proofing Essentials

If you have any pets or children, start installing all your proofing as needed. You can do this quickly and set up a zone for them to stay in while you’re still setting up some of the more hazardous things like kitchen chemicals, sharp tools, and breakables.