New Home Owner Checklist

The closings over, you have the keys, and your ready to move in. Buying a new home is an exciting time, and busy time. It is very easy to over-look some basic things that need to be done as soon as you get into your new home.

Call the utility companies. Gas, electric, cable, telephone, garbage service, and any other providers for your home must be called to ensure service is in your name. You can also double check what day your garbage will be picked up and when your bills will be due.

Local Parish Tax office. Don't forget to apply for a homestead exemption.  Visit your local Assessor's office and bring your settlement statement given to you at your closing.

Your New Address. Don't forget to inform creditors and magazine subscriptions of your new address. In most areas, you can now change your address online through the Post Office.

What's Your Number? Make sure your street number is identified and easily visible from the road. Reflecting house numbers on your mailbox work well.

Find your Main Circuit Breaker. Take time to locate the main breaker box for your home and label each breaker correctly.

Fire Extinguishers. Be sure to have at least one basic "all -purpose" fire extinguisher on each floor in your home and one for the kitchen. It is much better to be safe than sorry!

Emergency Exits. Get the family together and plan your evacuation routes in case of an emergency such as a fire.

Emergency Kit. Make sure emergency phone numbers are all posted in one place where everyone can find them quickly in case they are needed. Also put together a first aid kit and make sure everyone knows where it is.

Smoke Detectors. Make sure there are adequate smoke detectors in your home and all work properly. Change batteries every six months.

Locate the main water shut-offand make sure all household members know where it is located. It is also a good idea to purchase a water cut-off wrench in case it is necessary to turn off your water supply from the meter. (When you need this, it tends to be an emergency, with yelling and screaming...I know from experience)

I know that likely much much more, but once you have these things done, relax a little, and enjoy your new home.