What should I do first in a new home?

Handle safety: re-key locks, test smoke/CO detectors, and locate the water, gas, and electrical shutoffs before anything else.

Should I change the locks on a new home?

Yes. You don't know who has copies of the old keys, so re-key or replace all exterior locks on day one.

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The first things to do after you get the keys.

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Re-key or replace exterior locks

Test smoke and CO detectors, replace batteries

Locate water main, electrical panel, and gas shutoff

Label the electrical panel breakers

Transfer utilities and set up accounts

Update address (ID, banking, mail forwarding)

Confirm home insurance is active

Replace furnace filter

Deep clean before moving furniture in

Collect appliance manuals and warranty info

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What should I do first in a new home?: Handle safety: re-key locks, test smoke/CO detectors, and locate the water, gas, and electrical shutoffs before anything else.
Should I change the locks on a new home?: Yes. You don't know who has copies of the old keys, so re-key or replace all exterior locks on day one.

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