Key Takeaways:
- What Should You Do Before Unpacking in Your New Home?
A smooth move-in starts with preparation. This new homeowner’s checklist helps you tackle everything from safety checks and utilities to smart furniture planning and first-day essentials.
Introduction
Moving into your new home soon? Congratulations on reaching this exciting milestone! While it’s a moment worth celebrating, the real work begins right after you’ve collected the keys. Before you get carried away with decorating and house-warming plans, make sure you lay your foundations properly.
Wondering how to perform essential safety checks and smart furniture planning? You have come to the right place. Let this new homeowner checklist help you settle in smoothly during your first few weeks.
Home Move-in Tips: What Should You Do Before Unpacking
1. Change All Locks and Security Codes
Security should be your first priority. Your new home may still have accessible entry points for contractors or agents. To ensure your safety and peace of mind, replace all door locks, window latches, and gate padlocks. If your unit has a smart lock or digital gate system, reset it to factory settings and update the app access to prevent unwanted entries.
2. Set Up or Transfer Utilities
Avoid that first-day panic with no lights or Wi-Fi. Contact SP Group for electricity and water, and arrange gas activation through City Energy if needed. For broadband and TV subscriptions, providers like Singtel or StarHub offer convenient scheduling. Make sure everything is up and running before you move in.
3. Perform a Deep Clean Before Moving Furniture In
An empty unit is much easier to clean, especially after renovations. Post-renovation dust, debris, and construction residue can accumulate in corners, behind fixtures, and inside built-ins. Take time to clean corners, windows, and built-in cabinets. If construction dust is still present, consider engaging a post-renovation cleaning service to save time and effort.
4. Conduct a Defects Check (for BTO Units)
If you’ve just received keys to a new BTO flat, inspect your unit thoroughly for any flaws in tiles, walls, fittings, and doors. You have 7 days to submit a defect list to HDB, so do this before bringing in any bulky furniture or appliances.
5. Plan Your Furniture Layout Early
One of the most practical items on your new homeowner checklist should be furniture planning. Start by measuring your floor space, noting key features like door swing areas and power points. Choose multipurpose furniture for small spaces, such as a mattress and bed frame with storage or an extendable dining table. Plan around essential pieces first, then layer in decorative items over time.
6. Stock Up on First-Day Essentials
Don’t underestimate your first 24 hours in a new home. Part of a well-prepared new home checklist should include packing a “first-night box”. Include toiletries, towels, bed linen, snacks, tissues, basic cookware, toilet paper, and chargers. This box should be the last thing you pack but the first thing you open.
7. Set Up Temporary Curtains or Blinds
In the excitement of moving in, privacy can be easily overlooked. Installing temporary blinds or curtain rods before your custom window treatments are ready helps you feel secure. It also blocks harsh sunlight and prevents outsiders from peeking in during your first few nights. Ready-made options are quick, affordable, and easy to install, giving you peace of mind while you settle in.
8. Inspect and Test Electrical Points
Before you bring in your appliances and furniture, test all electrical outlets to avoid future headaches. Plug in and check every switch, power socket, and lighting fixture to confirm they’re working properly. Also, make sure your appliances are compatible with the outlet type or get suitable adaptors. If any issues arise, flag them early for rectification.
9. Prioritise Furniture Delivery Scheduling
Coordinate your furniture shop deliveries in Singapore to align with your renovation or cleaning schedule. Start with essentials such as a fridge and a bed. Add decorative pieces and non-essentials gradually once your space is fully functional.
10. Create a Homeowner Documents Folder
Owning a home comes with a fair share of paperwork—some of which you may need months or even years down the road. So, set aside a file to store your HDB key collection letter, renovation permits, appliance manuals, and receipts for major purchases. This will come in handy for future reference, warranty claims, or resale preparation. Go digital if you prefer. Simply scan your documents and store them in the cloud for easy access anytime.
How to Make Your New House Feel Like Home
With the right prep, moving into your new place doesn’t have to be stressful. This new homeowner checklist helps you cover all the essentials, from safety checks and utilities to furniture planning and first-day comforts. By taking these practical, actionable steps early on, you’ll create a smooth transition.
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