The First 30 Days: Your Post-Closing Homeowner Checklist

The papers are signed, the wire transfer went through, and the keys are finally in your hand. Congratulations! You are officially a homeowner.

But as the adrenaline of closing day wears off, a new reality sets in: You have a house to manage. The first month in a new home is a critical window. It’s the time to secure the property, set up your systems, and catch maintenance issues before they become expensive headaches.

To help you navigate the chaos of moving, we’ve broken down the essential tasks into a manageable 30-day timeline.

Day 1: Immediate Security & Safety

Before you move a single box of furniture inside, tackle these non-negotiables.

1. Change the Locks

This is rule number one. You have no idea how many copies of the old keys are floating around—with neighbors, contractors, or dog walkers.

• Task: Rekey all exterior doors or install new smart locks.
• Pro Tip: Don’t forget the garage door keypad code and any mailboxes.

2. Locate the Main Shut-Off Valves

If a pipe bursts at 2:00 AM, you don’t want to be searching for the water main with a flashlight.

• Task: Locate the main water shut-off, the gas shut-off, and the main electrical breaker panel. Label them clearly.

3. Test Safety Detectors

• Task: Test every smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector in the house.
• Action: Replace the batteries immediately, even if they chirp. If the units are yellowed or older than 10 years, replace the entire unit.

4. The "Empty House" Deep Clean

It will never be this empty again.

• Task: Hire professional cleaners or do a DIY deep clean. Focus on carpets, inside cabinets, and bathrooms.

Week 1: Logistics & Systems

Now that the boxes are coming in, it’s time to get the house running smoothly.

5. Transfer and Audit Utilities

Hopefully, you scheduled the transfer before closing, but now you need to verify.

• Task: Confirm water, gas, electricity, internet, and trash services are active and in your name.
• Action: Write down the meter readings on move-in day and take a photo. This protects you from being billed for the previous owner's usage.

6. Change the HVAC Filters

You don’t know when the previous owner last did this. A clogged filter makes your system work harder and drives up energy bills.

• Task: Buy a pack of high-quality air filters and replace the old ones immediately.

7. Update Your Address

• Task: File a Change of Address with the USPS.
• Checklist: Update your address with your bank, credit cards, employer (for W-2s), insurance providers, and subscription services (Amazon, Netflix, etc.).

8. Check the Water Heater

• Task: Check the temperature setting on your water heater.
• Action: 120°F is usually the sweet spot—hot enough for a shower, but not hot enough to scald a child (and it saves energy).

Weeks 2–4: Maintenance & Settling In

The boxes are mostly unpacked. Now, shift your focus to long-term maintenance and community.

9. Create a Home Maintenance Binder

Start off organized.

• Task: Get a physical binder or create a digital folder.
• Store: Insurance policies, warranty manuals for appliances, receipts for any repairs you’ve already done, and paint swatches/codes for the walls.

10. Clean the Gutters and Downspouts

Water is a homeowner’s worst enemy.

• Task: Ensure gutters are free of debris and that downspouts are directing water away from your foundation.

11. Meet the Neighbors

You don’t need to be best friends, but knowing who lives next door is a safety asset.

• Task: Introduce yourself. Ask about trash pickup days or neighborhood quirks.

12. Review Your HOA Rules (If Applicable)

• Task: If you moved into an HOA community, read the CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions).
• Why: You don’t want to get fined in your first month for leaving your trash can out too long or parking in the wrong spot.

13. Service the Dryer Vent

This is a major fire hazard that is often overlooked.

• Task: Check the dryer vent hose for lint buildup. If it looks clogged, hire a professional to clean the ductwork.

The Bottom Line

The first 30 days are a whirlwind, but they set the tone for your experience in the home. By knocking out these safety and maintenance tasks early, you stop being a "buyer" and start being a confident "homeowner."

Now, go pour a glass of wine and enjoy your new living room—you’ve earned it.