Moving into a new home is SO exciting. But before you get too caught up in everything, you need to inspect your place and make sure it’s safe and ready to go. Check these things before moving your family in.
1. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Make sure the batteries are charged and that the detectors work. You don’t want your new investment burning down the first night.
2. Fire extinguishers. Check the expiration date on the extinguisher and make sure it’s in an easily accessible place.
3. Dryer vent. You might be scrupulous about taking the lint out of your dryer, but you’d be surprised at how many people are not. Check your dryer vent on both ends to make sure it’s not clogged with lint, which is a major fire hazard.
4. Water heater. Some people keep their water heaters HOT. Check the temperature of the water to make sure that it’s safe, especially if you have children or elderly living with you.
5. Doors and door locks. Make sure you change your locks as soon as you get into the house because you don’t know who has a key to the current house. Additionally, make sure that the front and back doors are meant to be exterior—so they can better insulate your house and protect you in case of a forced entry.
6. Window: Make sure that they are lockable and installed correctly. For more security, fit cut PVC pipe or 2x4s into the molding to prevent the windows from being opened from the outside.
7. Escape route. Before you spend the night, make sure you and your family members know how to get out of the house quickly in case of an emergency.
Make sure to save this post for later so you can reference it when you move in. And if you want more tips like this, follow up @yourrealsandiego on instagram!
