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The Essential New Homeowner Checklist to Complete Right After Moving In

  • Writer: joeyruse
    joeyruse
  • 2 days ago
  • 3 min read
New homeowner checklist after moving in

Becoming a homeowner is exciting—but it also comes with a long list of responsibilities that no one warns you about. Most people move in, unpack, and celebrate… while dozens of critical home maintenance tasks sit quietly waiting to become expensive problems.


Whether you just bought your first home or you’re relocating to a new one, this guide breaks down the 20 essential new homeowner checklist items every homeowner should complete immediately—the tasks that protect your investment, prevent costly repairs, and set you up for long‑term success.


1. Change Every Lock and Reprogram the Garage Door

You have no idea who still has keys. Previous owners, contractors, cleaners—it’s a risk.

  • Replace exterior door locks

  • Reprogram garage door openers

  • Reset any smart locks or keypads

2. Locate Your Home’s Emergency Shut-Offs

When something goes wrong, seconds matter.

  • Main water shut-off valve

  • Electrical panel and primary breakers

  • Gas shut-off valve

Most homeowners don’t learn these until a crisis.

3. Replace All HVAC Filters

Old filters choke your system and skyrocket energy bills.

  • Replace immediately upon move-in

  • Set reminders to replace every 1–3 months

4. Test All Smoke and CO Detectors

Never assume they work.

  • Press “test” button

  • Replace batteries

  • Replace outdated units entirely if older than 10 years

5. Clean Dryer Vent and Lint Trap Housing

One of the top causes of house fires.

  • Vacuum interior lint housing

  • Inspect exterior vent

  • Schedule a professional cleaning if heavily clogged

6. Flush Your Water Heater

Sediment kills water heaters early.

  • Drain tank

  • Inspect for rust or leaks

  • Test pressure-relief valve

7. Inspect Attic and Crawl Spaces

Where major issues hide.

  • Look for signs of pests

  • Check for moisture or leaks

  • Inspect insulation gaps

8. Deep Clean Every Appliance

It’s easier now than after you unpack.

  • Refrigerator coils, seals, and trays

  • Dishwasher filter

  • Oven interior and racks

9. Check for Plumbing Leaks

Small leaks turn into big problems.

  • Under every sink

  • Around toilets

  • Behind washing machine

10. Map Out GFCI Outlets and Test Them

These protect you from electrical shock.

  • Press “test” and “reset” on all GFCI outlets

  • Replace any that fail the test

11. Inspect Windows and Doors for Air Leaks

Air leakage = higher bills.

  • Check weather stripping

  • Inspect caulking

  • Look for fogged windows

12. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters destroy roofs and foundations.

  • Remove leaves and debris

  • Ensure downspouts drain away from the house

13. Change Toilet Wax Rings If Signs of Leaks Exist

Often overlooked.

  • Look for soft flooring, discoloration, or musty smells

  • Reseal immediately if you spot issues

14. Create a Home Maintenance Schedule

Your home has hundreds of tasks.

  • Monthly, quarterly, and annual tasks

  • Appliance maintenance

  • Seasonal checklists

This is where most homeowners get overwhelmed.

15. Inspect Foundation for Cracks

Small cracks are normal. Spreading cracks are not.

  • Check exterior foundation walls

  • Look inside basement or crawl space

16. Trim Trees Away From the House

Branches cause roof damage and pest bridges.

  • Cut limbs touching roof or siding

  • Remove rotted limbs

17. Label Your Electrical Panel

Panels are notoriously mislabeled.

  • Test each breaker

  • Correctly label rooms, lights, and appliances

18. Check Slope and Drainage Around Your Home

Water should flow away from your foundation.

  • Look for pooling water

  • Adjust soil grading if needed

19. Inspect All Exterior Caulking

Caulk fails faster than you think.

  • Windows

  • Doors

  • Siding gaps

20. Document Everything With Photos

If you ever sell, these will matter.

  • Appliance condition

  • Foundation cracks

  • Roof status

  • Property grading

Feeling Overwhelmed? You Don't Have to Do Homeownership Alone

These are just the first 20 tasks you must do as a new homeowner. The full list of long-term home maintenance tasks is far bigger—covering every appliance, system, and structural component of your home.

Most homeowners forget the majority of them.

And that’s why breakdowns happen.

Take Control of Your Home From Day One With House Health

House Health organizes all your home’s maintenance tasks, reminds you what to do, and helps you prevent costly breakdowns.

Protect your home. Protect your wallet. Protect your peace of mind.

Sign up now at www.househealth.app.



 
 
 

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