Congratulations on your new home! Now all of the T’s have been crossed and the I’s dotted, your home is finally yours, but you might be wondering what essential things you need to be doing when you first move in. As always, we have you covered…
Windows, Doors & Gutters
A good place to start your checks is with the windows, doors and gutters. Look for faulty locks or rust around the mechanisms, signs of rot or breaks in the seals around the windows and doors as these things can cause bigger problems eventually. Check the gutters and down pipes for broken sections, obvious leaks, inadequate slopes and debris such as leaves and moss. Signs of leaking gutters might also be spotted inside the property with damp ceilings or walls and obvious mould growth.
Fuse Box and Water Valve
Checking the fuse box and water valve not only means you will know if they are in good working order but that you will know exactly where to find them in the event of an emergency. Check if any lights in the property are not dim or flickering and that the fuse box looks clean with no discoloured marks, sparks or burning smells. If you notice any of these things, call an electrician to take a look. Your water stop valve could be in a number of places within the property including under the sink, in the airing cupboard or even outside on the street depending on the age of the property. It’s a good idea to track this down and confirm it works correctly.
Safety Checks
If you have small children or pets a safety walk around is essential, remember to check window and blind cords and any electrical appliances that are included with the property. It’s also a good idea to check the water temperature isn’t set too high, especially if you have younger children who might not understand the danger of hot taps yet. If there is an open or electric fire, are there secure guards fitted or will you need to purchase some? Now is also a good time to change the front and back door locks in the event that a previous set of keys is unaccounted for.
For expert advice on buying your first home or selling the home you have, we can help. Whether you are upsizing, downsizing or want to move to a completely new area, our team is on hand to talk you through the process.