Moving into a new house is an exciting moment. However, when the removal van drives away, and you are left with a pile of boxes, that excitement can quickly turn into feeling overwhelmed.
A 2026 NatWest Group report found that several individuals feel mixed emotions about moving. While 95% of home buyers feel happy when they find the right place, 85% say the moving process is stressful due to uncertainty.
The first few days in your new home are important. Getting key tasks done early saves time and lowers stress. It also helps you avoid costly mistakes later on.
Whether you are a first-time buyer, a renter, or moving for the tenth time, this checklist will help you feel settled and secure from day one.
Things to Do When Moving Into a New Home
Here are the first ten things to do when you move into a new home:
Set Up Your Broadband and Utilities
In today’s homes, being connected is as important as having running water. Having an active internet connection makes it easier to manage your move-in tasks.
If you haven’t done so yet, use a service like Uswitch to compare broadband and energy providers. This way, you can find the most cost-effective plan for your new area.
Secure Your Home Early
One of the first things you should review is your home’s security setup, especially if previous owners had access. This could include changing locks or upgrading your alarm system. Many homeowners choose to work with experienced providers like Barry Bros to ensure their property is properly protected from day one.
According to Yale, there are over 250,000 domestic burglaries in England and Wales annually. Multiple break-ins happen within weeks of moving in. During this time, homes appear occupied, but daily routines have not yet been established.
Check that you have alarm systems, cameras, or sensor lights installed. Ensure they function properly and you know the access codes.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Press the test button on all alarms. Replace batteries or install new alarms if needed. You can place smoke alarms on every floor and a carbon monoxide detector near gas appliances. This takes under an hour and can save your life.
To ensure your family’s safety, take a look at this quick visual guide on how to test and maintain your home’s detectors properly:
Take Meter Readings on Day One
Read your gas, electricity, and water meters as soon as you arrive. Photograph them with a timestamp and send the readings to your suppliers. Doing so protects you from being billed for energy used by the previous occupants.
Check the Boiler and Water Supply
Turn on the boiler to confirm that hot water and heating are working. Locate the stopcock under the kitchen sink to act quickly in case of a burst pipe. Check the water pressure; low pressure may indicate plumbing issues.
If you have any urgent plumbing problems, you can use services like Checkatrade to find trusted local plumbers quickly.
Deep Clean Before You Unpack
A clean-looking property benefits from a thorough going-over before your belongings go in. Focus on hidden areas such as inside cupboards, behind appliances, and around skirting boards. Check for any signs of mould or damp, particularly in bathrooms.
Update Your Address Promptly
Contact your bank, employer, DVLA, HMRC, and GP with your new address.
To simplify things, use a digital concierge service like Sloth Move. This can update many accounts and councils for you all at once.
Use Royal Mail‘s redirection service as a backup, not a replacement. Missing key posts during the first few weeks creates more admin than anyone needs.
Locate the Fuse Box and Key Controls
Locate your fuse box, stopcock, and any main valves. Label them clearly if they are not already marked. Check that each circuit is correctly identified. If anything looks outdated or poorly wired, call a qualified electrician.
Introduce Yourself to Neighbours
A friendly introduction quickly creates goodwill. A neighbor who knows you will notice anything unusual, help with packages, and share helpful local tips. A quick knock on the door costs nothing and works well.
Set Up the Essentials First
Prioritise beds, the bathroom, and the kettle before unpacking everything else. A calm, room-by-room approach is far less stressful than trying to do it all at once. Get the basics right first and the rest will follow.
To help you plan what to prioritise from the moment you arrive, take a look at this guide on how to pack for moving house for more insights.
Conclusion
The first week in a new home is important for everything that comes next. Start by focusing on safety and security to make the transition easier. Taking small steps now can prevent problems later. Settle in well and enjoy the new beginning you deserve.
If you have any interesting stories to share, get in touch with us at PeopleMax, and we will be happy to share.