Checklist

Your First 72 Hours

Reviewed & curated by Maria BanouHome Life AdvisorBeyond the Closing™ · ChecklistLast reviewed August 2026

The short list of things worth handling in the first few days, before life in the new home gets busy.

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Get the essentials running

Confirm utilities are on and in your nameElectric, water, gas, sewer or septic, trash.
Set up internet and any home servicesInstallation windows can be a week or more out — book early.
Confirm trash and recycling days and rules

Learn the house

Locate the electrical panelCheck whether the breakers are labeled. If not, labeling them is an easy first-weekend project.
Locate the main water shutoffMake sure everyone in the household knows where it is.
Locate HVAC controls, the air handler, and the filter size
Locate appliance model and serial numbersPhotograph the data plates — they are hard to reach later.

Safety and access

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectorsReplace batteries you did not install yourself.
Review locks, keys, garage codes, and any smart-home access
Document the property condition with photosUseful for warranty, insurance, and punch-list conversations.

Get organized

Put closing and home documents in one place
Separate urgent repairs from later improvementsUrgent usually means water, electrical, safety, or security. Everything else can wait for a plan.

General guidance only. This is not professional, legal, financial, insurance, or safety advice — requirements vary by property, equipment, and location.

Beyond the Closing™

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