First of all, congrats on your new home move! It’s a big step and one that can completely change your life!

However, now that the fun part is over, here comes the dreaded new home move and all the stress, clutter and inconvenience a new home move brings. There are a few things you mustn’t overlook when moving if you want to have a safe and cosy relocation.

Ensure your safety

One of the first things you should do after your new home move is change the locks. Even if you’re moving into a brand new home, you can’t know who has the keys to your property!

So, find a good locksmith, invest in high-quality locks and add a few latches. This will ensure you’re the only people who have keys and access to your home.

Another safety addition you shouldn’t overlook is a safe. Even the most basic model will protect your possessions, especially during the first few days with movers, real estate agents and neighbours coming and going.

Child and pet-proof your new home

If you’re moving with kids and pets, you must understand that your new home doesn’t have all the safety elements of your old one. So, in order to have a safe and stress-free unpacking and settling in, make sure to child-proof your home.

Putting up baby gates, especially at the stairs, should be your first step. Next, get safety latches on cabinets and drawers and make sure to install a toilet lock (toddlers have undeveloped balance and can fall into the toilet very easily).

Anti-scalding devices can also ensure your kid’s safety. And when it comes to your pets, make sure to pet-proof the cables, install gates and find your pet a safe and quiet place to rest and reduce the stress of a new home move.

Make sure you’re connected

Before or right after you move, contact your utility providers and inform them of your situation. There are companies that can handle your electricity connection quickly and easily so that your new home is lit and cosy once you move in.

They can help you find the best deals and even help you with your wiring issues. Some of these companies also handle gas, water and even Internet and TV connection, which will all make the first few days after the move much more comfortable and pleasant.

Additionally, you should contact your security system provider to schedule a date for the installation.

Find your breaker box and main water valve

Knowing about your electrical panel and the main valve can potentially be lifesaving! These two elements allow you to turn off all the power in your home and stop your water supply, which are some of the most important things to do in case of a new home move emergency.

Most of the time, you can find your circuit breaker and the main valve in the basement, garage or utility room (but the main valve can also be located outside, mostly in warmer climates).

After you’ve deactivated the electricity and water, make sure to test them! Your entire home should be completely out of power and water.

Boost your privacy

If you want to feel relaxed at your new home, you should tackle your window treatment. If you’re planning to have a custom-made setup, you can get some temporary shades as a quick privacy solution.

Once you settle in and start working on your décor, you can opt for a more stylish and personalized option, but a temporary window cover is a must for the first few days.

Locate smoke and CO detectors

The two of the cheapest and most effective ways to protect your family and your new home is to have working smoke and CO detectors. Learn where they are located and make sure to have them working.

Proper maintenance is also very important, and there are even some new and improved smoke and CO detector options you can install in your home. Some smart models can even connect to your Wi-Fi and alert you about fire or carbon monoxide even when you’re not at home.

Explore your new surroundings

Aside from being fun, going on a little exploration adventure in your new neighbourhood will also let you familiarize yourself with markets, playgrounds, public transport, public institutions and other services you might need.

Also, don’t forget to meet your neighbours and ask for first-hand tips about the area!

Once you make all of these safety checks and changes, reconnect your utilities and get over the initial excitement, you can start turning your new house into a home!

Need Interior Design or A Floorplan Re-Design?

If you have moved into a new home you will probably want to make some changes to personalise the spaces. Or perhaps you are thinking about how to maximise the current floorplan or open up your new home.

Plush Design Interiors will help you to redecorate, renovate and maximise the functionality and style of your new home. Plush Design Interiors will create beautiful and personalised mood boards to inspire you and incredible 3D floorplans in full colour with a video so you can move around your proposed new space.

Contact Interior Designer, Penelope Herbert, for more details, penelope@plushdesigninteriors.com.au.

 

About the Author

Lana Hawkins is a regular contributor to the Don’t Call Me Penny Interior Design Blog. She is an architecture student and the editor-in-chief of Smooth Decorator. Lana enjoys writing about interior decoration and landscaping. Interested in sustainability and green building, that’s where Lana gets most of her inspiration. Find her on FB @smoothdecorator or visit www.smoothdecorator.com