Congratulations on becoming a homeowner! Now that you've taken possession of your new house, it's time to ensure that everything is in order and set yourself up for a smooth and comfortable living experience. Here are the top things you should prioritize:
1. Change the Locks
One of the first things you should do is change the locks on all exterior doors. You never know who might have a key to your new home, so it's essential to prioritize your security and peace of mind. Hire a locksmith or replace the locks yourself to ensure that you have full control over who has access to your property.
2. Fire Safety
Ensure your new home is equipped with functioning, non-expired smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on each level. Test them to confirm they are in working order and replace the batteries if necessary. Additionally, consider placing fire extinguishers in easily accessible locations, such as the kitchen and near potential fire hazards. All bedrooms should have a secondary exit such as a window. Make sure these windows are easy to open and are not obstructed by any furniture.
3. Learn Where All the Shut-Offs Are
Familiarize yourself with the location of the gas shut-off valve, electrical panel, and main water shut-off valve. In case of emergencies or maintenance needs, it's important to know how to turn off these utilities. These shut-offs should be clearly labeled and easily accessible. If your home has older shut-off valves, try operating them. Some valves can seize up or stick over time. If your valve is sticky or difficult to operate, it should be replaced.
4. Have Your HVAC Equipment Serviced
Schedule a professional HVAC inspection and servicing for your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. This will help identify any issues and ensure that your systems are running efficiently. Regular maintenance will not only extend the lifespan of your equipment but also contribute to a healthier indoor environment. If you have newer equipment, see if the seller left any paperwork or info regarding warranties. Many manufacturers offer warranties, but not all are transferrable to new owners!
5. Have Your Ducts Cleaned
Consider hiring a professional duct cleaning service to clean the air ducts in your new home. Often duct-cleaning companies will put a sticker near the furnace that shows when the last service was done. Over time, dust, dirt, and allergens can accumulate in the ductwork, diminishing indoor air quality and potentially causing respiratory issues. A thorough duct cleaning can help remove these contaminants, improving the overall cleanliness and healthiness of your home's air. This is particularly important if anyone in your household suffers from allergies or respiratory conditions.
6. Change Your Furnace Filter
Inspect and replace the furnace filter. Starting with a fresh filter ensures proper airflow and improves indoor air quality. Refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for the recommended filter replacement frequency. Consider buying a few extra filters, as most need to be replaced every 3-6 months. Your HVAC technician might have done this for you already! To learn more about furnace filters, check out our blog post here.
7. Clean Bathroom and Dryer Exhaust Fans/Ducts
Clean the exhaust fans in your bathrooms and the dryer vent to remove dust and lint buildup. Proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining good air quality and preventing potential fire hazards.
8. Update the Electrical Panel Index
Take the time to update the index or labeling for your electrical panel. Properly labeling each circuit will make it easier to identify which areas of your home are connected to specific breakers, simplifying troubleshooting and future electrical work. Especially with older homes, circuit labels can become outdated or go missing as work is done over the years.
9. Caulk Around All Plumbing Fixtures
Inspect the caulking around sinks, bathtubs, and showers. If there are any gaps or deteriorated caulking, remove and replace it to prevent water damage and potential mold growth.
10. Re-Read Your Home Inspection Report
Take the time to review your home inspection report once again. Refreshing your memory about the condition of the property and any recommended repairs or maintenance will help you prioritize tasks and address any lingering concerns.
By following these essential steps, you can ensure a smooth transition into your new home and lay the foundation for a comfortable and safe living environment.