New Home Setup Checklist: What to Do After Moving In

100 Items

Complete new home setup guide covering security, utilities, safety, cleaning, and room-by-room organization for a smooth transition.

Complete New Home Setup Guide

Comprehensive new home checklist covering all essential tasks from security setup and utility connections to room-by-room organization, ensuring a smooth transition into your new home with proper safety measures and complete functionality.

1. Entry, Locks & Security

1Change or rekey all exterior door locks

2Install deadbolts or smart locks

3Reprogram garage door opener / keypad

4Check and replace batteries in smoke & CO detectors

5Install fire extinguishers in key areas (kitchen, hallway)

6Add peephole or security camera at main entrance

7Test all window locks and add security bars/locks if needed

8Install motion-sensor exterior lights

9Secure sliding doors with secondary locks or bars

10Establish a safe spot or lockbox for valuables, documents

2. Utilities, Systems & Basics

1Locate main water shut-off valve

2Locate main electrical breaker panel & label circuits

3Turn on utilities (water, gas, electricity, internet)

4Test HVAC / heating / AC systems

5Change HVAC filters, install new ones

6Check plumbing for leaks (under sinks, around toilets)

7Flush water heater, check pressure relief valve

8Test all outlets & switches (use a plug-in tester)

9Install surge protectors on key electronics

10Connect or test home internet / Wi-Fi router

3. Safety & Emergency Preparedness

1Stock a first-aid kit

2Keep flashlights and extra batteries

3Create or update emergency contact list (plumber, electrician, neighbor)

4Make a fire evacuation plan & map escape routes

5Install carbon monoxide detectors where needed

6Place fire blankets or kitchen fire suppression

7Stock emergency supplies (nonperishable food, water)

8Label circuit breakers for easy identification

9Secure heavy furniture to walls (to prevent tipping)

10Store important documents in fireproof safe

4. Cleaning & Deep Prep

1Deep clean all floors, walls, windows, baseboards

2Wipe down cabinets, shelves, and tile grout

3Disinfect bathrooms, toilets, showers thoroughly

4Clean duct vents, air registers

5Clean and test appliances (oven, fridge)

6Vacuum and mop throughout

7Remove packing debris and trash

8Clean windows (inside & out)

9Clean gutters and downspouts (if any)

10Wash curtains, blinds, or window treatments

5. Kitchen Setup

1Unpack and store cookware, pots, pans

2Set up utensils, knives, cutting boards

3Place dishes, glasses, cups, serveware

4Arrange food storage containers & lids

5Install garbage & recycling bins

6Stock basic pantry items (salt, oil, spices)

7Set up small appliances (microwave, kettle, toaster)

8Install sink accessories (drain rack, soap dispenser)

9Test dishwasher, garbage disposal

10Label or organize cabinets for easy access

6. Bathroom Setup

1Install shower curtain, liner, hooks

2Place bath mats, rugs, non-slip mats

3Unpack towels, hand towels, washcloths

4Set up toilet paper holders, extra stock

5Place trash bin, toilet brush, plunger

6Install mirrors, medicine cabinet, shelves

7Place toiletries (soap, toothbrush holders, etc.)

8Check water pressure & showerhead functionality

9Seal around bathtub/shower edges (caulk)

10Ventilate and test exhaust fan

7. Bedrooms & Closets

1Install beds, frames, box springs

2Put mattress, mattress protector, bedding

3Add pillows, duvet, blankets

4Set up nightstands and bedside lighting

5Hang curtains or blinds

6Install closet rods, shelves, organizers

7Place hangers, shoe racks, baskets

8Add mirrors, full-length if needed

9Test any ceiling fans or lights

10Organize clothing, start with daily outfits

8. Living Areas & Décor

1Arrange sofas, chairs, coffee table

2Place rugs, area carpets

3Set up lamps, overhead lighting

4Hang window treatments (curtains, blinds)

5Mount TVs, install entertainment units

6Arrange bookshelves, storage units

7Hang artwork, mirrors, wall décor

8Set up electrical/charging stations

9Add throw pillows, decorative accents

10Organize cables (conceal or tidy wires)

9. Maintenance & Tools

1Assemble a basic toolkit (hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, tape measure)

2Stock extra light bulbs, batteries

3Get an adjustable ladder or step stool

4Keep caulk, sealants, and adhesive on hand

5Acquire extension cords, power strips

6Get garden/yard tools if needed (hose, shovel)

7Install a smoke alarm change schedule reminder

8Monitor for leaks or water stains periodically

9Schedule regular HVAC / service maintenance

10Keep contact info for repair services

10. Final Touches & Move-In Checklist

1Walk through every room to check for missing items

2Check for scuffs, marks, paint touch-ups

3Test all doors and windows open/close smoothly

4Add welcome mats, door stops

5Introduce plants or greenery

6Set up Wi-Fi, smart home devices, thermostats

7Make a "first night box" (snacks, basic cookware, toiletries)

8Change mailing address, update postal service

9Get to know neighbors, local facilities (shops, hospitals)

10Take photos of the home condition (for records)

Overall Progress

Total Progress0/100

0% complete

Checklist Progress

1. Entry, Locks & Security0/10

2. Utilities, Systems & Basics0/10

3. Safety & Emergency Preparedness0/10

4. Cleaning & Deep Prep0/10

5. Kitchen Setup0/10

6. Bathroom Setup0/10

7. Bedrooms & Closets0/10

8. Living Areas & Décor0/10

9. Maintenance & Tools0/10

10. Final Touches & Move-In Checklist0/10

Checklist Progress0 of 100 items completed

0% complete - Ready to download!

Browse More Checklists

Related Checklists

Explore more checklists in the Home Checklists category

Home Inspection Checklist: Know What to Look For

A complete 10-section home inspection checklist with 100 key points covering structure, roof, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and more for thorough evaluations.

100 Items

Home Checklists

Home Maintenance Checklist: Keep Your House in Top Shape

Comprehensive home maintenance checklist covering roof, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, interior, appliances, and seasonal tasks.

100 Items

Home Checklists

Household Cleaning Checklist for Daily & Deep Cleaning

Comprehensive household cleaning checklist covering all rooms and areas for complete home maintenance and hygiene.

100 Items

Home Checklists

Ultimate Home Appraisal Checklist for Buyers & Sellers

Comprehensive home appraisal checklist covering property documentation, site features, structural elements, systems, and market analysis.

100 Items

Home Checklists

Home Building Checklist for New Construction

Comprehensive home construction checklist from land purchase to final handover, ensuring a smooth and successful building project.

100 Items

Home Checklists

Popular Categories

Most downloaded checklist categories

Car Checklists

Find essential car checklists for maintenance, safety, road trips, and inspections. Stay prepared and keep your vehicle in top shape.

0 Downloads

6 Checklists

Home Checklists

Explore home checklists for cleaning, organization, safety, and maintenance. Keep your home efficient, safe, and clutter-free.

0 Downloads

6 Checklists

Inspection Checklists

Browse inspection checklists for business, home, safety, and compliance. Ensure quality, accuracy, and preparedness every time.

0 Downloads

6 Checklists

Cleaning Checklists

Simplify cleaning with organized checklists for home, office, deep cleaning, and seasonal tasks. Stay spotless and stress-free.

0 Downloads

6 Checklists

Wedding Checklists

Plan your big day with wedding checklists covering planning, budget, guests, and timeline. Stay organized from start to finish.

0 Downloads

6 Checklists

Maintenance Checklists

Access maintenance checklists for cars, homes, and equipment. Prevent problems and keep everything running smoothly.

0 Downloads

6 Checklists