Moving into a new home is always an exciting moment. You might be so engrossed in the prospect of living in your dream house that you forget to be on the lookout for things that could go wrong.
Before you start packing all your belongings, make sure to check that the new house is in excellent condition and ready to accommodate you. But what should you do first? Here is a helpful guide to help you.
Planning to Move into a New Home- 11 Things to Do Before The Move
Check the Electrical System
Your home’s electrical system can be a critical hazard when it is not working properly. Try switching on all lights and other appliances in the different rooms to ensure that everything is working as it should. Also, check the fuse boxes and the ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) installed around the house.
If you’re moving into an older home, you might also want to request an expert such as Travis Electrical Service come to carry out a thorough inspection.
Look for Signs of Damage
While inspecting the electrical system, it is also important to look for any signs of physical damage. Are there any cracks in the walls or ceilings? Are there any water stains on the floors, ceilings, or broken windows and doors? If you see any damage, make sure to note it down and have it fixed before you move in and forget about it.
Check the Heating and Cooling System
The heating and cooling system is another critical component of your home. Make sure to turn on the furnace or air conditioner to see if it works properly. If it doesn’t, you might want to consider getting it fixed or replaced before you move in.
The system’s age is another thing to consider. If it is more than 10 years old, it may not function as efficiently as newer models do,which means it consumes more energy. This means it will break down more often and cost you more on your monthly utility bills. Replace it with a newer, more energy-efficient device.
Check the Plumbing System
Inspect all faucets, toilets, drains, and water heaters. If they seem okay, turn them on to check for any leaks. Additionally, check if there is any debris or damage to the drainpipes.
If you find any problems with the plumbing system, make sure to get it fixed before you move in. It’s a huge inconvenience during an already stressful time when you have a faulty plumbing system to deal with.
Check the Roof
The roof of your home is one of the most important aspects of your home. Inspect it for any signs of damage, such as missing tiles, warping shingles, or water stains. If you find any damage, have it fixed immediately.
Have the House Thoroughly Cleaned
It’s easier to give the new house a thorough cleaning before moving in. You can clean the house yourself or hire professionals, saving you time.
Get a Pest Inspection
A pest inspection is also an important exercise before moving into your new home. The inspection ensures no pests such as termites are lurking around your new home. If there are any problems, have them fixed immediately. During the inspection, take time to understand the pest problems in the area and pest-proof your home accordingly.
Walk Through the Property to Figure Out What Goes Where
You don’t want to wait until you move in to start figuring out where everything goes. Take a walk through the property and visualize where you want your furniture and other belongings to go. Use sticky notes to help you remember. Doing this beforehand will help make the moving process easier and less stressful.
Child and Pet Proof Accordingly
Walking through the property will enable you to figure out the best way to child and pet-proof your new house. Check the windows, flooring, cabinets, and other areas that are potentially hazardous to your children or pets. Make the necessary adjustments so that everyone in your family is safe and comfortable when you finally move in.
Set Up the Utilities
It pays to ensure your utilities are all up and running. It includes setting up an account at a gas station and reading your home’s meter. Other utilities to set up include water, electricity, cable, and internet.
Know Your Neighbors
Create time to meet your neighbors before moving in because they can be a great source of information about the area. Friendly neighbors can become great friends and help you settle in faster.
Have a Smooth and Stress-Free Move
Paying attention to these details before moving in can help ensure a less stressful move. It will quicken the process and save you money in the long run.