5 Tasks New Homeowners Overlook

There’s more to moving into a new home than unpacking boxes and doing a little decorating. Once you have a set of keys, it’s easy to forget about some of the most important things during the stress of a move. To help you remember some of those overlooked tasks, here are five things new homeowners should do during their first month in a new home:

Update Your Address

It may not be your first priority, but it’s critical to update your address on important accounts. FrontDoor recommends updating your address on your voter registration, driver’s license, bank accounts and tax forms. Updating early will save you from headaches later on and ensure that you’re getting your documents and important mail delivered to your new home. The USPS Mover’s Guide can be accessed online, which makes changing your address easy and convenient.

Install Safety Items

A home should never be without safety items, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Make sure these items are in working order upon moving into your new home. The National Fire Protection Association suggests placing smoke alarms in each bedroom, outside of sleeping areas and on every level of your home. NFPA also recommends checking the detectors every month.

Update Pet Licenses

Update your pet’s identification tags with your new contact information and address. If Fido gets lost during the stress of the move, his new tags and identification can help bring him back home if a neighbor spots him. It’s also a good idea to find out where the closest veterinarian and kennel are located in your new community. MyPet.com offers a search tool where you can enter in your zip code to access a list of local vets.

Inspect for Pests

To prevent pests, you have to know the signs of an infestation. During the first month of your move, be on the lookout for warning signs. For example, termites are wood-eating insects that can destroy your home. Their presence can be marked by hollow-sounding wood, cracking wallpaper, mud tubes on the exterior of the home and outside swarms.

Termite experts strongly urge new homeowners to eliminate any moisture sources around the home to prevent an infestation. This includes repairing all plumbing leaks and making sure that the air conditioner downspouts and condensation lines drain away from your home’s foundation. If you suspect an infestation, call a local pest professional immediately.

Plan Larger Renovation Projects

Any small repairs should be completed during the first few weeks after your move. During this time, start thinking about additional large-scale projects you might like to complete. The DIY Network suggests installing new plumbing, adding wood floors or completing a bathroom redesign. These three renovation projects can boost the value of your home. Remodeling expert Nicole Curtis notes that something as simple as new light fixtures and mirrors can make a dull bathroom look fresh. Additional large-scale projects, such as a kitchen makeover or basement restoration can also add value to your new home.