Move-in Check List:

You got a new place… awesome! Here are a few tips to make your living situation better and prevent complications later.

Before Unpacking

  • Clean before placing furniture

  • Photograph damage

  • Check locks

  • Check windows

  • Find breaker box

  • Find water shutoff

  • Check smoke detectors

  • Check appliances

  • Measure windows

  • Stock toilet paper

  • Put soap and towel in bathroom

  • Set up trash bags

  • Locate laundry area

  • Check heat and air conditioning

  • Make sure doors close and lock properly

Photograph Damage

Take pictures of:

  • Scratches

  • Stains

  • Broken blinds

  • Damaged floors

  • Holes in walls

  • Leaks

  • Cracked tiles

  • Dirty appliances

  • Anything already broken

This is especially important if you are renting.

First-Day Supplies

Keep these easy to reach:

  • Toilet paper

  • Soap

  • Towel

  • Trash bags

  • Phone charger

  • Basic cleaning supplies

  • Paper towels or cloths

  • Water

  • Snacks

  • Medications

  • Pajamas

  • Change of clothes

  • Shower curtain, if needed

  • Bedding

Do not pack your first-night essentials at the bottom of a mystery box.

Safety Check

Make sure you know:

  • How to lock all doors

  • Where the exits are

  • Where the breaker box is

  • Where the water shutoff is

  • Whether smoke detectors work

  • Who to call for maintenance

  • Where your car will be parked

  • How packages are delivered

Moving in is not just decorating. It is learning how the home works.

First-Day Supplies

Keep these easy to reach:

  • Toilet paper

  • Soap

  • Towel

  • Trash bags

  • Phone charger

  • Basic cleaning supplies

  • Paper towels or cloths

  • Water

  • Snacks

  • Medications

  • Pajamas

  • Change of clothes

  • Shower curtain, if needed

  • Bedding

Do not pack your first-night essentials at the bottom of a mystery box.

Safety Check

Make sure you know:

  • How to lock all doors

  • Where the exits are

  • Where the breaker box is

  • Where the water shutoff is

  • Whether smoke detectors work

  • Who to call for maintenance

  • Where your car will be parked

  • How packages are delivered

Moving in is not just decorating. It is learning how the home works.