Quick answer: After moving into a new property, change the locks, set up gas, electricity, water and broadband, and unpack the essentials first. Get to know the area and update your address with everyone who needs it.
Moving to a new property is always an achievement. However, the hard work doesn’t end after moving into your new home. Instead, it is only the beginning of more tasks needed to get back on track. But for people experiencing a move for the first time, what are the things that you should do right after moving into a new property? Here are some tasks to perform:
1. Secure Locks
The property’s security should be the number one priority. It’s only logical that changing the locks is the first thing people should do after moving into a new property.
If another family previously owned the house, they likely had past babysitters, pet sitters, and other family members who have an extra key to the home. It’s vital to ensure nobody aside from your family gets in. Change the locks in the house, including the doorknobs, if necessary.
2. Connect the City Services
The first night in a new home is the most challenging part of moving in. Although adjusting to a new environment comes naturally, it’s a struggle to live in a home without the necessary services like electricity, gas, and water.
If the past owners haven’t left the utilities on for the incoming family, check out the electricity lines, water valves, and gas tanks that enable people to use these services to get through the first night.
3. Unpack the Essentials
Unpacking is a tedious task that can wait until the weekend or the one after. However, it’s essential to unpack the essentials first as they will be the materials or tools your family will need to get through the first week.
It’s ideal to pack the essentials, such as bathroom supplies, sets of clothing, and handy electronics, in a separate box for easier unpacking. Make sure to mark the box and keep it away from the other packages containing non-important items.
4. Familiarise Yourself
Living in a new house can get a bit confusing. Therefore, it pays to familiarise yourself with the place after moving in. First, be familiar with the key locations of the property, such as the fuse box, gas and water valves, sprinkler systems and others. Next, identify the best routes to take if ever an emergency arises and teach it to others.
5. Update Addresses on File
An address is essential for almost everything nowadays. Make sure to update your address as soon as moving in through the post office, banks you have accounts in, and other companies that know your past address. In effect, your letters shouldn’t get lost in transit.
Avoid the hassle and update your addresses right away. If it’s possible, switch to the new address before moving to the new home. Eliminate the possibility of forgetting the task by doing it ahead of time.
Conclusion
Aside from the things mentioned above, it’s also vital for families to childproof their house if they have a newborn kid. Keep in mind that the children’s safety is most important and shouldn’t be set aside. Overall, moving into a new property should be a celebration of success. Therefore, it’s best to enjoy the night while doing everything necessary to keep the home safe and successful.
1 Van 1 Man Removals is one of the best moving companies based in York, UK. We offer home removal services for people ready to relocate and start a new life. Our goal is to make moving day easier for everyone. If you’re looking for trusted delivery companies near you, contact us today and let’s see how we can help.
Last updated 8 November 2026