Moving Into a New Construction Home: Your Checklist

Before move-in, set up utilities and internet, order blinds and any appliances not included, and change your address. In the first week, find the shutoffs and breaker panel, check the HVAC filter, test smoke alarms, file your warranty paperwork, and walk the house to start your punch list.

Before move-in day

Two to four weeks out

• Utilities. Set up power, water and sewer, trash, and gas if you have it, in your name starting on closing day. Ask your builder which providers serve the address.
• Internet. Schedule installation early. New addresses sometimes take longer to activate.
• Blinds and window coverings. Many new homes come without them. Measure at your final walkthrough and order ahead.
• Appliances. If a refrigerator, washer or dryer isn't included, schedule delivery for right after closing.
• Change of address. Forward your mail, and update your bank, employer, insurance and subscriptions.
• Homeowners insurance. Your lender will need proof before closing.

The week of closing

• Confirm your closing time, what to bring and how to send funds. Confirm wiring instructions by phone with your attorney's office.
• Book movers, or reserve a truck.
• Pack a first-night box.

What is the first thing you should bring into a new house?

Practical answer: a first-night box. Put in toilet paper, soap, towels, a shower curtain, phone chargers, basic tools, a flashlight, medications, snacks, water, sheets and pillows, and a change of clothes. You'll want them before you unpack anything else.

What are the first things to do when moving into a newly built home?

In the first few days:

1. Find the shutoffs. The main water shutoff, the electrical panel, and the gas shutoff if you have gas. Label them.
2. Check the HVAC filter. ENERGY STAR recommends checking filters about once a month. After construction, the first filter can get dusty fast.
3. Test the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
4. Register the appliances and file the manufacturer warranties.
5. Organize your builder warranty. Note the coverage periods and how to submit requests. The FTC recommends putting warranty requests in writing.
6. Walk the house. Start a running list of anything that needs attention, with photos and dates.
7. Check drainage after the first rain. Make sure water flows away from the house and downspouts are connected.

What should I include on my checklist when moving into a new house?

Here's the full list in one place:

• Utilities and internet set up
• Mail forwarding and address changes
• Homeowners insurance in place
• Blinds and appliances ordered
• Shutoffs and electrical panel located and labeled
• HVAC filter checked
• Smoke and CO alarms tested
• Appliance and builder warranties filed
• Running punch list started
• Driver's license and vehicle registration updated with your state's DMV
• Voter registration updated
• HOA contact info and rules saved

A tip from the job site

Construction leaves fine dust in places you won't see at first. Run the HVAC fan with a fresh filter for the first few weeks, and change the filter more often early on.

Who's writing this. I sell new homes for D.R. Horton at Collins Ridge in Hillsborough, so I represent the builder, not you. This guide is general education from my years on job sites and in sales. It isn't legal, tax or lending advice, and it doesn't describe any specific home, price or incentive. Check the sources linked below, and talk with your own lender, agent or attorney before you decide.