Moving into a new home is exciting, but before you start unpacking boxes and arranging furniture, it’s a great idea to do a few essential checks. While the house is still empty, you’ll have a unique opportunity to make sure everything is in working order, identify any hidden issues and even start planning your ideal layout. Here’s a list of key tasks to tackle before you settle in.
1, Test all utilities and appliances
One of the first things to do is make sure all utilities are working as they should. Check that the electricity, gas and water supplies are on and functioning properly. Test light switches, plugs and any appliances that come with the property, like an oven, hob or washing machine. Don’t forget to check the hot water – run taps in the kitchen and bathroom to confirm both hot and cold water are flowing. This will help identify any issues right away, giving you time to contact the professionals if needed.
2, Inspect the plumbing
Next, have a quick look at the plumbing to make sure there are no leaks or blockages. Flush the toilets and run all the taps and showers to check for good water pressure and adequate drainage. Check under sinks for signs of leaks, and inspect pipes to make sure there are no drips or damp spots. These simple checks can save you from nasty surprises down the line.
3, Locate valves and fuse boxes
Knowing where the main shut-off valves and fuse box are located is essential in any new home. Familiarise yourself with the fuse box and check that it’s clearly labelled. If it’s not, you might want to label it yourself for quick reference in the future. Locate the main water stopcock and gas shut-off valve. Knowing where these are now will make things much easier if you ever need to turn them off in a hurry.
4, Check for signs of damage
Take a careful look around for any signs of damage that may have been missed during your viewings or in the survey. Look for things like cracks in walls, damp patches, mould or discolouration on the ceilings. These could indicate a problem that needs investigation or repairs.
5, Set up security features
Check that locks and any security features are working properly. Test the door and window locks, and consider installing a new lock on the front door for added security. If there’s an alarm system, make sure it’s functioning and ensure you have all the necessary codes and contacts in case you need them.
6, Take room measurements
It’s much easier to measure up an empty house than one that’s full of furniture. So take this opportunity to measure the key spaces in each room, including doorways and window frames. Having these measurements handy will make it easier to decide where to place larger furniture, and for buying things like curtains or shelves.
7, Plan your unpacking
A bit of planning at this early stage can make the process of unpacking much easier. Stand in each room and visualise where your furniture might go – drawing a quick layout can help. Decide which rooms you’ll prioritise unpacking first, like the kitchen and bedroom, to make your first few days more comfortable, and work out the most efficient process of working through the remaining rooms.
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