Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone! While you might be busy unpacking and making the space your own, there are a few important tasks you should check off your list to ensure that your new home is safe, comfortable, and running smoothly.
At Inspection Works, we want to help you settle in with confidence. Here’s a list of 12 things we recommend checking after moving into your new home:
1. Change the Locks 🔑
One of the first things you should do is change or rekey all exterior locks. Even if the previous owners or builders provided keys, there’s no way to know how many copies exist. Replacing the locks ensures only you and those you trust have access. If your home has electronic keypads, reset the codes. Consider upgrading to smart locks, which allow you to control entry remotely, grant temporary access to guests or service providers, and monitor activity.
Also, don’t forget to check and secure other locks around your home, such as sliding doors, windows, and basement entrances. If your home has a security system, update the passcodes and verify that all sensors and cameras function correctly. Taking these steps early can help prevent unauthorized access and give you peace of mind in your new home.
2. Check Smoke Detectors 🔥
Ensure your smoke detectors are functioning correctly, and replace batteries if needed. Every level of your home should have at least one working smoke detector to provide early warning in case of a fire. Test each smoke detector by pressing the test button and listening for the alarm. If the detector doesn’t sound, replace the batteries or the entire unit if it is over ten years old.
Additionally, ensure smoke detectors are appropriately located—ideally in hallways, bedrooms, and near kitchens, but not directly above stoves where false alarms may be triggered. If your home has interconnected smoke detectors, test them to ensure they all activate simultaneously when one is triggered. If they are not interconnected, consider upgrading to a system where all alarms sound together, providing better protection for your household.
3. Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors 👆
Carbon monoxide is an odourless, deadly gas that can accumulate from fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, and stoves. To ensure your safety, test your carbon monoxide detector by pressing the test button and listening for the alarm. If it doesn’t sound, replace the batteries or the entire unit if it is more than five to seven years old, as sensors degrade over time.
Place carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms and on each level of your home, ensuring they are not obstructed by furniture or curtains. If your detector is interconnected with others in your home, verify that all alarms sound simultaneously when one is triggered.
Many modern smoke detectors also include built-in carbon monoxide detection. If your smoke detectors need replacement, consider upgrading to combination smoke and carbon monoxide detectors for comprehensive protection. Otherwise, standalone carbon monoxide detectors are also a good option.
4. Locate and Test the Main Water Shut-Off Valve 🚰
Locate and test your home’s main water shut-off valve. Knowing where it is and ensuring it works properly can help prevent significant water damage in a plumbing emergency. Find the valve—typically located in the basement, utility room, or near the water meter—and turn it off and back on to ensure it moves freely. If the valve is stuck, difficult to turn, or leaks when operated, consider replacing it.
Additionally, if you have multiple shut-off valves for different areas of your home, test them as well. Understanding how to shut off water in an emergency quickly can save you from costly repairs and damage.
5. Check for Leaks 💧
Water leaks can lead to severe damage over time, so inspecting your home for any signs of moisture problems is essential. Look for discoloration on walls or ceilings, musty smells, or soft spots on the floor, as these can indicate hidden leaks. Check under sinks, around toilets, behind appliances like dishwashers and refrigerators, and near your water heater.
Inspect exposed pipes for signs of corrosion, dripping water, or mould growth. Examine the foundation for damp spots or pooling water in your basement or crawl space. Catching leaks early can help prevent costly repairs and potential mould growth.
6. Service the HVAC System ❄️
Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is key to your home’s comfort and air quality. Start by replacing the air filters to ensure proper airflow and efficiency. A clogged filter forces the system to work harder, increasing energy costs and reducing performance.
Schedule a professional HVAC inspection and maintenance if you’re unsure when the system was last serviced. This includes checking refrigerant levels, cleaning coils, inspecting ductwork for leaks, and ensuring the system operates safely and efficiently. Regular maintenance extends the life of your HVAC system and helps prevent costly breakdowns.
7. Clean Air Ducts 🌬️
If your home has central heating or cooling, consider having the ductwork cleaned by a professional. Over time, dust, pet dander, mould, and other allergens can accumulate in your air ducts, reducing indoor air quality and potentially aggravating allergies or respiratory issues. Cleaning your ducts can help improve airflow efficiency, remove contaminants, and create a healthier living environment.
If you notice excessive dust buildup around vents, increased allergy symptoms, or musty odours when your HVAC system runs, it may be time to schedule a duct cleaning service.
8. Inspect Gutters and Downspouts 🍂
Gutters and downspouts are crucial in protecting your home from water damage. Check them for leaves, dirt, and debris that could cause clogs and prevent proper drainage. Ensure downspouts direct water at least five feet away from your home’s foundation to prevent basement flooding or soil erosion.
If gutters are sagging, leaking, or pulling away from the house, they may need repair or replacement. Consider installing gutter guards to reduce future maintenance needs. Regularly cleaning and maintaining your gutters will help prevent costly water-related issues.
9. Check the Roof 🏠
Inspect the shingles or tiles for missing, cracked, or damaged pieces. Pay attention to areas where shingles may be curling or blistering, as these can be signs of aging or weather damage. If you have a flat roof, look for pooled water, which can cause damage if left untreated.
Additionally, inspect the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights to ensure it’s intact and not corroded. Missing or damaged flashing can lead to water infiltration. If you’re uncomfortable getting on the roof yourself or if it’s too steep, hiring a professional roofer to conduct a more thorough inspection is always a good idea.
Catching roofing issues early can prevent expensive repairs or a complete replacement. By taking the time to check your roof, you’re investing in the long-term safety and durability of your home.
10. Look for Signs of Pests 🐭
Start by checking for droppings in common areas like the kitchen, pantry, basement, attic, and near entry points. Rodent droppings are typically small and dark, while insect droppings may vary in shape and size depending on the species. Look for chewed wires, insulation, or wood, as rodents and some insects often gnaw on materials to create nests or to wear down their teeth.
Additionally, examine your walls, ceilings, and corners for small holes or cracks that could be potential entry points. If you find any, seal them immediately to prevent pests from entering. Pay attention to any unusual sounds, such as scurrying or buzzing, especially at night, which could indicate the presence of rodents or insects in your walls or attic.
Insects like termites or carpenter ants can leave behind wood shavings or hollowed-out wood, so inspect wooden beams, trim, and furniture for damage. If you find signs of pests, it’s important to address the issue quickly. Professional pest control services can help identify the type of pests you’re dealing with and recommend the most effective treatments to eliminate them and prevent future infestations.
11. Test the Garage Door 🏘
Check for unusual noises, such as grinding or squealing, which could indicate mechanical issues. Pay attention to the door’s movement—it should open and close smoothly without hesitation or jerking. If the door is off-track or misaligned, it can become stuck or fail to operate altogether.
Next, test the safety features, such as the automatic reversal system. To do this, place a small object (like a block of wood) in the door’s path while closing. The door should reverse direction and reopen upon contact with the object. This feature is a critical safety measure, preventing the door from crushing anything. You should also check the photo-eye sensors near the bottom of the door tracks. These sensors should be clean and free from obstructions. When properly aligned, the sensors will prevent the door from closing if an object is detected in its path.
Finally, inspect the door’s springs, cables, and tracks for signs of wear or rust. If any of these components are damaged or worn, it’s best to have them replaced by a professional, as attempting to fix them yourself can be dangerous. Regularly testing and maintaining your garage door ensures its functionality and keeps it running safely and efficiently for years to come.
12. Review Your Inspection Report 📝
After moving in, it’s a good idea to revisit your home inspection report. This document highlights areas that may need attention or ongoing maintenance. Focus on any issues marked as high priority or time-sensitive and address them as soon as possible to avoid further damage. Pay attention to areas like the roof, plumbing, electrical systems, and HVAC, as well as any recommendations for repairs or upgrades that could improve your home’s safety and efficiency.
If the report suggested follow-up with specialists, such as for structural concerns or pests, take action to have those areas further evaluated. Regularly reviewing your inspection report will help you stay on top of maintenance, avoid costly repairs, and keep your home in optimal condition. If anything is unclear, reach out to your home inspector for clarification.
We hope these simple yet crucial checks will help you feel more confident and secure in your new home. These tasks can help ensure your home is safe, comfortable, and running efficiently. At Inspection Works, we’re committed to providing thorough inspections and guidance throughout the homeownership journey.
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