18 Important Things to Do After Moving Into a New House

Congratulations, you've arrived! The boxes are in, the truck has departed, and you're officially starting your new chapter. That initial feeling of being "in-between" is a natural part of the transition, but it quickly transforms into a sense of belonging when you know your next steps. This checklist is your guide to tackling the essential tasks after moving day, from securing your home to welcoming your new neighbors.

1. Change the locks and secure your new home

You have no idea who has copies of your current keys. Changing the locks on your first day gives you control over who can walk through your door. Rekey or replace all exterior locks, consider installing a security system, and add motion-sensor outdoor lighting to deter break-ins.

2. Locate your fuse box and main water shut-off valve

Finding these before an emergency happens saves you from scrambling in the dark or watching water flood your floors. Locate your circuit breaker, main water shut-off, and gas shut-off if applicable.

3. Set up utilities in your new house

Even if you scheduled transfers ahead of time, verify everything is actually working on day one. Test electricity and gas by flipping on lights and running the HVAC. Run faucets to check water pressure and confirm hot water is heating properly. Find out your trash and recycling pickup schedule.

4. Deep clean your new home before unpacking

Cleaning is far easier when rooms are empty. Focus on kitchens, bathrooms, floors, and windows. You can hire professional cleaners or do it yourself—what matters is starting fresh.

5. Unpack essentials and your first-night box

Make your space functional enough that you can rest after a long moving day. Set up bathroom necessities, bedroom basics, and kitchen must-haves. Everything else can wait.

6. Set up internet and phone services

Test your speeds and check Wi-Fi coverage in different rooms. For anyone working remotely, reliable internet from day one is essential.

7. Connect major appliances in your new house

Getting appliances running helps your home feel functional faster. Test your washer and dryer, let your refrigerator reach the right temperature, and run your dishwasher through an empty cycle.

8. Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms

Press the test button on every detector in your home. Replace the batteries even if the devices seem to work. The general guideline is one on each floor and near every bedroom.

9. Childproof and pet-proof your home

Before kids and pets roam freely through your new space, address the obvious hazards. Install outlet covers, cabinet locks, and baby gates. For pets, check fence lines, remove toxic plants, and update their tags with your new address.

10. Inspect your home for damage or needed repairs

Walk through the entire house again. Look for cracks in walls and ceilings, test doors and windows, check for plumbing leaks, and replace your HVAC air filter. Make a list of repairs—some you can handle yourself; others might require a professional.

11. Update your address with USPS and important contacts

Submit a change of address with USPS online or at your local post office. Notify government agencies and the DMV, update banks and financial institutions, and work through subscriptions and online accounts systematically.

12. Register your vehicle and update your driver's license

Most states give you 30 to 60 days to register your vehicle and update your license after moving. Visit your local DMV with proof of your new address.

13. Transfer or update your insurance policies

Contact your insurance providers soon after moving. Update homeowners or renters insurance with your new address and coverage amounts, adjust your auto insurance for your garaging location, and confirm your health insurance doctors and pharmacies are still in-network.

14. Organize important documents for your new address

Gather your key paperwork and file it in one accessible spot: closing documents, home inspection report, warranty information, insurance policies, utility account numbers, and moving receipts. If you have items you're not ready to unpack, Flex Storage offers options at a Flex facility or on-site at your home.

15. Find healthcare providers near your new home

Don't wait for an emergency to figure out where to go. Check your insurance network, read reviews, and schedule new patient appointments. Save the addresses of the nearest emergency room and urgent care clinic in your phone.

16. Register your children for their new school

Contact the school district to learn what enrollment requires. You'll typically need proof of residence, immunization records, transcripts, and a birth certificate. If possible, visit the school with your child before the first day.

17. Introduce yourself to your new neighbors

A simple wave, a quick hello, or a knock on the door goes a long way. Neighbors often share useful information about the area. Building even casual relationships helps you feel at home faster.

18. Explore your new neighborhood

Take walks or short drives to locate the essentials: grocery stores, pharmacies, parks, and restaurants. Transfer your prescriptions to a nearby pharmacy. Ask neighbors for their favorite spots—local recommendations often beat what you'll find online.

Your moving into a new house checklist is complete

Working through this list sets you up well in your new home. Moving is a process, though, and not everything has to happen on day one. Tackle tasks at a pace that works for you.

If you still have belongings in storage or items you're not ready to unpack, Flex Storage keeps them safe at a secure facility or on-site at your home. When you're ready, you can schedule delivery to any address.

FAQs about moving into a new house

How long does it typically take to fully settle into a new home?

Most people feel settled within a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the size of the move and how much unpacking remains. Focusing on one room at a time helps you make steady progress without feeling overwhelmed.

What should I do if my belongings were damaged during the move?

Document the damage with photos and contact your moving company right away to file a claim. Review your moving contract for details on coverage and any deadlines for reporting issues.

Where can I store items I am not ready to unpack after moving?

Flex offers portable storage trailers you can keep on-site at your house or in one of our secure lots. If you need access to these items often, we recommend keeping your trailer on site.

How do I recycle or dispose of moving boxes and packing materials?

Flatten cardboard boxes and place them in your recycling bin, or check whether your local recycling center accepts large quantities. Bubble wrap and plastic typically go to designated drop-off locations rather than curbside recycling.

Do I need to update my voter registration after moving to a new address?

Yes! Updating your registration ensures you can vote in local elections at your new address. You can usually do this online through your state's election website or when you update your driver's license at the DMV.