A new home checklist helps you handle the practical jobs that can be easy to overlook when moving into a new property. Use this new home checklist to prepare utilities, check safety, clean key areas, unpack essential supplies and organise the first weeks in your new place.
Whether the property is newly built, rented or previously occupied, check the condition of the home and understand how its systems work before relying on them. Follow the instructions provided by the landlord, seller, building manager or qualified tradespeople.
New home checklist before move-in day
- Confirm key collection, access arrangements and move-in permissions.
- Arrange electricity, gas, water, internet and other relevant services.
- Check which utilities are active and how meters are read.
- Measure rooms, doorways and stairways before moving large furniture.
- Arrange cleaning, repairs or professional inspections where needed.
- Update your address with important organisations and delivery services.
- Keep property documents, warranties and contact details together.
Check safety and essential systems first
Locate the electrical panel, water shut-off and any other key controls. Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms where fitted, and follow local safety guidance for installation and testing. Look for visible leaks, damaged sockets, loose handrails or other concerns. Do not attempt electrical, gas or structural repairs yourself; contact a qualified professional when something needs attention.
Clean and prepare the main rooms
- Clean kitchen counters, cupboards, appliances and sinks before storing food.
- Clean bathrooms and check taps, toilets, drains and ventilation.
- Dust shelves, wipe high-touch surfaces and clean floors.
- Check windows, locks, doors and curtains or blinds.
- Plan bedroom setup so bedding and basic lighting are ready first.
- Keep cleaning products safely stored away from children and pets.
New home essentials to unpack first
Prepare an essentials box with toilet paper, hand soap, towels, basic toiletries, medication, chargers, a torch, bin bags, scissors, a basic toolkit and a few cleaning supplies. For the kitchen, unpack drinking glasses, plates, cutlery, a kettle or other everyday appliance, and a few simple food items. Set up beds and bedding before unpacking less urgent belongings.
Room-by-room move-in checklist
Kitchen
Check the fridge, cooking appliances, ventilation and storage. Put everyday cookware, utensils and food basics within easy reach.
Bathroom
Set out towels, toiletries, a bath mat and cleaning supplies. Check for leaks and make sure ventilation works.
Bedrooms
Assemble beds safely, prepare bedding and set up curtains or other privacy measures.
Living and work areas
Arrange essential seating, lighting and internet equipment. Keep walkways clear while boxes are being unpacked.
First month in your new home
- Finish address updates and confirm important deliveries.
- Learn waste collection days and local building or neighbourhood rules.
- Test appliances and keep manuals and warranty information.
- Make a list of repairs or improvements and prioritise safety issues.
- Set a simple cleaning and maintenance routine.
- Review household bills and note recurring payment dates.
If you are still planning the move itself, use the Moving House Checklist. For a first rental or apartment, see the First Apartment Checklist. The Home Maintenance Checklist can help you plan recurring upkeep after you settle in.
Keep your new home checklist useful
Separate urgent safety or service issues from optional decorating and upgrades. Record the date of important checks, keep receipts for work completed and ask qualified professionals about anything you are unsure how to operate or maintain. Browse the checklist library for more home organisation tools.
A new home becomes easier to manage when the essentials are handled first. Work through one room and one priority at a time, then build routines that fit the way you live.