6 Home Repair and Maintenance Tasks to Tackle After Moving In
As we all know, whether by personal experience or by learning from someone else, moving is no cakewalk. Apart from the physical exertion, moving can leave you emotionally spiraling!
Moving into a new home, especially from a bustling place like Bergen County, can feel like a whirlwind. You’ve packed up your life and said goodbye to old memories, and now you’re ready to settle into a new space.
But moving in doesn’t stop at unpacking boxes. Your home needs some attention to make sure everything runs smoothly, so it’s a good idea to handle a few key repair and maintenance tasks right away.
Once the stress of the move is behind you, focusing on these early tasks will help keep your new place comfortable and problem-free. Let’s dive into what should be at the top of your list.
Pro Tip: Hire a Moving Company to Focus on Other Priorities
Moving is a full-time job on its own. From carefully packing up your fragile items to loading and unloading heavy furniture, it can take up a lot of your energy. Hiring a Bergen County Moving Company is a smart move. They’ll handle all the heavy lifting, literally, which gives you more time to focus on the important things—like settling into your new space and planning out essential repairs.
Working with a professional moving company means you won’t have to worry about damage to your belongings or straining yourself with large pieces of furniture. They’ll manage the logistics, letting you put your energy into making your new house feel like home. With this big job out of the way, you can quickly get into the real work of taking care of your new home.
- Inspect and Service Major Appliances
Once your belongings are in place, your next step should be checking the major appliances around the house. Whether it’s the HVAC system, water heater, or kitchen appliances, a thorough inspection will help you avoid surprises down the line. This is especially important if the house has been sitting empty for a while. Appliances can wear down without regular use, so it’s a good idea to make sure everything is functioning properly.
It’s worth having a professional come in and service these appliances, especially if they haven’t been inspected in a while. If any issues come up, it’s better to address them early before they turn into bigger (and more expensive) problems.
- Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Safety is always a priority, and one of the simplest tasks you can do after moving in is testing your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. These devices play a critical role in keeping your family safe, but they can be easy to overlook during the chaos of moving. Take a moment to check that each one is working properly and replace any batteries that are low.
If the detectors are outdated, it’s a good idea to upgrade them right away. Newer models offer better features like longer battery life and more accurate detection, giving you greater peace of mind. This small step can go a long way in protecting your home and family from potential hazards, so don’t skip it.
- Secure Doors and Windows
Once you’ve moved in, it’s a good idea to check the security of your doors and windows. Over time, locks can become loose or worn out, and windows might not close as tightly as they should, leading to potential security risks or drafts. Take some time to walk through your home, testing each lock and latch to make sure everything is secure.
If any locks seem weak or outdated, consider upgrading them for added peace of mind. Weatherstripping around windows and doors can also help keep drafts out, improving energy efficiency and comfort. A quick check and a few simple upgrades can make your home feel safer and more protected from both intruders and the elements.
- Inspect and Clean Gutters
Gutters might not be the most exciting part of your home, but they play a huge role in protecting it from water damage. When gutters are clogged with leaves, dirt, or debris, water doesn’t flow properly, which can lead to serious issues like roof leaks or foundation problems. Right after moving in, take a quick look at your gutters to see if they’re in good shape.
If they look clogged or damaged, either grab a ladder and clean them out or hire a professional to handle them. Regular gutter maintenance is key to preventing water damage and avoiding costly repairs down the road. Getting this done early helps your home stay in great shape, especially during rainy seasons.
- Check the Plumbing for Leaks
Plumbing issues can sneak up on you, especially if the previous owner has ignored them. One of the smartest things to do after moving in is to check all the faucets, toilets, and visible pipes for any signs of leaks. Even a small drip can cause bigger problems like water damage, mold, or increased utility bills.
Take a walk around your home, check under sinks, and listen for any dripping sounds. If you notice anything off, it’s best to call in a plumber to fix it right away. Fixing leaks on time not only saves you money but also keeps your new home dry and safe from future water damage.
- Replace Air Filters and Clean Vents
Air quality matters more than you might think, and after moving in, it’s the perfect time to give your HVAC system a little TLC. Replacing the air filters is a quick task that can make a big difference. Clean filters improve the air you breathe and help your heating and cooling systems run more efficiently.
While you’re at it, clean the vents well. Dust and debris can build up over time, especially if the home has been vacant. Cleaning vents will help ensure that the air flows freely throughout your house, keeping it comfortable and improving your home’s overall energy efficiency.
Moving into a new home comes with a lot of excitement, but it also requires some immediate maintenance to keep things running smoothly. From checking appliances and plumbing to cleaning out the gutters and replacing air filters, these simple tasks help prevent bigger problems in the future. Taking care of these essential repairs and maintenance steps right after moving in allows you to settle into your new home with peace of mind, knowing it’s safe, comfortable, and ready for the long haul.
