Since you are reading this, there’s a good chance you’re about to move into your new home. Congratulations!
Moving into a new home isn’t exactly a walk in the park, especially if you’re not the first occupant. In fact, the real work begins after the movers in Reston, VA, have unloaded the last box. To help making the big move easier, we’ve compiled these six things you should do right after moving in:
- Change the locks. You never know who else has keys to your new home, so make security your top priority and go get new locks and deadbolts. You can install the new locks yourself – most new bolts come with drilling templates for easy installation – or you can call a locksmith.
- Check the windows. Specifically, check all the locks and make sure they are working; then check if all window panes are undamaged. Make a note of all issues and contact a window repair/replacement contractor, ideally the same one who originally installed the windows. Some window contractors offer transferable warranties, so it’s worth checking the paperwork if you’re eligible.
- Check the plumbing, in case you overlooked something during the first tour. Specifically, check for leaks, dripping faucets, running toilets, and the water heater. Try taking two different water meter readings two hours apart, with no water used in the house. If there’s a difference, you have a leak somewhere.
- Check all lighting. Try every switch and make sure they all work. If possible, replace all lighting with LED equivalents; LED lights last much longer and require less energy. You might also want to install new switch plates and power outlets; if you’re unfamiliar with this, hire a professional electrician.
- Check for pests. Look into the attic, crawlspace, and other spots for signs of (or actual) rodents, insects or reptiles. While there are many DIY ways to get rid of pests, it’s best if you just hire a pest control service especially if the house hasn’t been occupied for a long time. It will be a lot more difficult to get rid of them if your things have already been delivered by your office movers in Washington, DC.
- Clean the house thoroughly. Take note that a full house cleaning takes a lot of time and effort. You can always hire a cleaning service if you’re pressed for time. That said, you can make it a lot more fun by organizing a housewarming-slash-cleaning party – just make sure the food and cleaning supplies are placed in separate areas.
If you have the chance, start cleaning and do the repairs before actually moving in. That way, the move will be a lot less stressful – all you need to do is unpack once your apartment movers in Arlington, VA, have unloaded all your things.
If you want to know more about how we can make moving into a new house easier, call us today at (703) 682-5922 or use our contact form.
