You waited for months before you found the right home. After the long process of buying a house, you can finally say that you are now the proud owner of your new home. But before letting the excitement get you, know that there are still things you need to do before moving in.
Maybe you managed to close the deal, sign all the paperwork, and are now the legal owner of the house. You made arrangements to change your address formally, find a moving company, and even asked to transfer your utilities ahead of time. After getting an appointment for a professional house cleaning before the big day, what else should you add to your to-do list?
Check for Signs of Pest Infestation
One of the residential pest control company’s top tips is to check for any pests signs before you move in. This includes looking for droppings, nesting materials, chewing damage, and even live insects. If you see any of these, it’s best to hire a professional to take care of the problem before moving in.
Even without the physical signs of pest infestation, it still makes sense to seek the help of a pro. They can check your new property for any entry points that pests might use to get in. They can then seal these off so you won’t have to deal with problems once you’ve moved in.
Look for Any Signs of Water Damage, Mold, or Mildew
Another issue you need to watch out for is any signs of water damage, mold, or mildew. These can all indicate a bigger problem you need to address before you move in. For instance, water damage can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can cause health problems for you and your family.
As for damages to your plumbing, hire a reputable plumber to help you look at the system and make sure that everything is in working order. If you plan on replacing your water fixtures, it is best to do this before the moving day.
Inspect for Any Damage, Cracks, or Holes
Aside from water damage, it would help if you also looked for any cracks, holes, or other damage to the property. These can indicate structural problems that need to be fixed before you move in. It is not wise to trust your home’s previous owner, especially if you opted to skip a home inspection.
To be safe, it’s best to conduct your own inspection of the property before moving in. This way, you can spot any damage and have it fixed before it becomes a bigger problem. This will also ensure your family’s safety since you have already managed to spot possible hazards beforehand.
Double-Check Your HVAC System
Your HVAC system can impact your comfort level inside your new home, so it’s essential to make sure that it is in good working condition. This includes checking the air filters and making sure that they are clean. You should also check the thermostat to see if it is working properly.
It is also a good idea to have your HVAC system serviced before you move in. This way, you can be sure that it is in good condition and won’t cause any problems once you’ve moved in. Check for your HVAC system’s maintenance logbook to see when it was last serviced and what the technician did to solve any issue.
Test All Outlets and Switches
The last thing you want to happen is for your electrical outlets to fail after you moved in. The previous owners may have shown you the house with all the lights working. But the only way to know if any of your electrical outlets and switches are working is by testing them yourself.
Take the time to test all the outlets and switches before moving in. Don’t forget to test all lighting fixtures and replace them as needed. If you find any issue concerning your electrical outlets and switches, hire a professional electrician to look at it.
So, before moving into your new home, make sure to add these tasks to your to-do list. Checking for any signs of pests, water damage, mold, or mildew is crucial as it can help you address the issue before it becomes a bigger problem. In addition, you should also inspect the property for any damages and have them fixed before moving in. Finally, don’t forget to test all outlets and switches and your HVAC system to ensure that everything is working correctly. You can avoid any stressful situation once you’ve finally moved into your new home by following these tips.
Meta Title: Before the Big Move: Must-dos That Just Make Sense
Meta Description: Are you in the process of downsizing and moving to a new home? If so, here are five of the tasks you’ll want to add to your to-do list to prep for your move.