Moving day is now behind you, but there’s still lots to do when you get to your new home! The first week can be all of the above, with a mix of excitement, exhaustion and adjustment to new surroundings as you start to make a new house a home.
Sometimes people feel compelled to take it all out at once, but it’s easy to get overwhelmed. There are ways to make the transition easy and avoid the stress without being rushed into the process.
Here are some of the most important tasks to keep in mind for your first week after moving.
Make sure that everything has arrived safely.
Prior to the start of unpacking, examine your belongings and furniture. Ensure all requested items have been received and inspect for any damage to the items that may have occurred during transport.
This is particularly important for delicate objects, electronic devices and valuables. If it is apparent that there are problems early, it will be easier to resolve them when the facts of the move are still fresh.
Also, be sure to check that all boxes are delivered and installed in the proper rooms.
Prioritise Essential Areas
Many people make the mistake of moving over the course of one day and packing in everything. This may cause frustration and undue fatigue.
Rather, concentrate on rooms that your family uses most. Generally, the bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchen should be the priority.
With the beds put together, toiletries unpacked and most of the kitchen equipment in place, life will be a lot easier during the days of unpacking the remaining boxes.
Evaluate test facilities and appliances.
As soon as possible, check that all utilities are functioning correctly. Switch on lights, check power points, open taps, flush toilets and ensure internet and communication facilities are working as planned.
Other large items like refrigerators, ovens, washing machines and air conditioners should be tested as well.
If there are any issues, it is easier to be able to plan repairs if necessary, if they are identified early.
Update Your Address
While quite a few people do some address changes in advance of a move, there are still organisations that escape our attention.
In the first week ensure that your address is updated with:
- The banks and financial institutions.
- Insurance providers
- Government agencies
- Medical providers
- Schools and childcare centres
- Subscription services
- Online shopping accounts
These are important updates that help to avoid sending important mail to your old address if they are completed quickly.
Get to know your neighbourhood!
To really feel at home and at ease, find out about your new surroundings.
Stroll around the locality and find local services like supermarkets, medical services, parks, public transport routes and petrol stations.
Knowing the location of key services can make life much easier and help you feel comfortable faster.
Families may find it useful to visit the local playgrounds and community facilities, as these can offer a great opportunity to explore their surroundings.
Check House Safety Devices
It’s a good time to assess safety measures in the first week, throughout the home.
Check smoke alarms, check locks on doors and windows, and find important utility shut-off locations. If the property has a security system, keep in mind how it works.
Homeowners also upgrade locks when they move into a new home for extra security. Contact us if you need moving help from Gold Coast-based removalists.
