12 Things Every New Homeowner Should Do

The boxes are arriving, you’re figuring out where everything belongs, and your new house is finally starting to feel like home. Before you get too settled, though, there are a few important things worth taking care of. Some will protect your family, some will make life easier, and all of them can help you feel more comfortable knowing your new home is truly ready for you. Here are 12 good places to start.

1. CHANGE THE LOCKS
That key you received at closing is officially yours—but chances are it isn’t the only copy that has ever existed. Previous owners may have shared keys with family, neighbors, friends, contractors, or pet sitters over the years. Give yourself some peace of mind by replacing the locks or having the existing ones re-keyed. If you’d enjoy updating the look of your doors at the same time, there are plenty of entry door lock sets to choose from. Many include a deadbolt, and you may even be comfortable installing a new front door handle yourself. If you love the existing hardware, a locksmith can simply re-key it and make the duplicate keys your household needs.

And because we’ve probably all had that sinking “Where are my keys?” moment, think about your backup plan, too. Avoid leaving a spare in the first places someone might look:

• Under the doormat
• Above the door
• Under a rock
• In the mailbox or planter

A secure lockbox or another controlled-access solution can give you a safer backup. You might also consider an electronic lockset with keypad entry, biometric access, smart-home integration, or a live camera view. Anything that means fewer frantic pocket searches at the front door is a nice bonus.

2. TEST & INSPECT SMOKE AND CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS

Few things matter more than knowing the people you care about are protected. Test every smoke and carbon monoxide detector in your new home, whether it’s hardwired or battery-operated. Check the age of each unit and the manufacturer’s replacement recommendations, too. You can read about recommended detector placement here.

If it’s time for replacements, you can explore new smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Forbes also offers this helpful Smoke Detector Guide if you’d like a little guidance before choosing and installing them.

3. FIND THE GAS AND WATER SHUTOFF VALVES
This is one of those things you’ll be very glad you learned before you ever need it. Find the gas and water shutoff valves and make sure everyone who should know their locations does. If a valve requires a wrench, keep the correct tool somewhere convenient. You can also mark the lines with tags and add simple instructions so there’s less confusion if something ever goes wrong.

4. REVIEW THE CIRCUIT BREAKER PANEL

Take a look at your circuit breaker panel before you’re standing in the dark wondering which switch controls the kitchen. Clear descriptive labels can make a future tripped breaker much less stressful. If the panel isn’t labeled—or the existing labels aren’t very helpful—getting that organized now is a small project you’ll appreciate later.


5. RE-CODE THE GARAGE DOOR OPENER & KEYPAD
Your garage is another entrance to your home, so give its security the same attention as your front door. Reset the remote controls and keypad codes so you’re starting fresh. Find the owner’s manual and follow the instructions for your particular opener. If your home doesn’t have an exterior keypad and you’d like the convenience of one, one can be purchased here.

6. CHECK THE TEMPERATURE SETTING OF THE WATER HEATER

Getting to know your new home means getting acquainted with the equipment that keeps everyone comfortable, too. Take a few minutes to learn how your hot water heater operates and review how to set the water temperature safely for your household and equipment.

Check for any maintenance records while you’re there. If you can’t tell when it was last serviced, having a qualified professional familiar with the brand and model take a look can help you start fresh with a maintenance schedule of your own.

7. COMPILE A HOME INVENTORY LIST
This may not be the most exciting new-home project, but it can be one of the most valuable. Walk through your home and document the belongings you’ve worked hard to acquire. Photos, a narrated video, an inventory list, or an app can all help. If you ever experience a fire, severe storm, or other loss, you’ll have a much better record for your insurance claim. The process can also help you determine whether your personal property coverage is sufficient. And while you’re getting organized, consider starting a Homeowner Journal where you can keep warranties, improvements, and service appointments together.

8. READ THE HOME INSPECTION REPORT
Remember that inspection report you spent so much time reviewing before closing? Don’t tuck it away and forget about it. Now that you actually live in the home, some of the inspector’s comments may make even more sense. Revisit the report, identify anything that still needs attention, and create a manageable plan for repairs and maintenance.

9. SCHEDULE A SERVICE CALL FOR THE HVAC SYSTEM

Being comfortable at home starts with heating and cooling that work the way they should. Set the thermostat to your preferences, replace the filters, and consider scheduling an HVAC maintenance visit. Look for a qualified contractor familiar with your system’s brand and model. Some companies offer maintenance plans with twice-yearly checkups and discounted repairs. Check the warranty first in case it requires a particular service provider, and make sure both the indoor and outdoor units get attention.

10. FILE ALL CLOSING DOCUMENTS
You’ve accumulated quite a collection of important papers during the buying process, so give them a permanent home of their own. Keep your deed, mortgage documents, promissory note, closing disclosure, purchase contract, seller disclosure, home warranty, inspection report, and important receipts together somewhere secure. A safe deposit box or fireproof and waterproof box may work well. If paper isn’t your thing, there are also plenty of digital storage options.

11. COMPILE A LIST OF TRUSTED CONTRACTORS
Every homeowner eventually needs a good plumber, electrician, HVAC professional, or handyman—and it’s much nicer to know whom you’re calling before there’s an emergency. Ask neighbors who they trust, research local providers, and start keeping your own list. You can also read “How to Choose the Best Contractor“. And don’t forget to ask me. Helping you after the closing table is part of the relationship, too, and I’m happy to share reliable service providers and contractors I know.

12. GET A HOME WARRANTY
Nothing takes the shine off new homeownership quite like an unexpected repair bill. A home warranty may help with certain covered home systems and appliances, depending on the plan you choose. Take time to understand the coverage, exclusions, service fees, and renewal terms so you know what you’re getting. You can learn more about home warranties in this article. If you’d like help exploring your choices, I’m always happy to help you find an option that feels right for you and your new home.