Your Complete Move-In Checklist as a New Resident

Congratulations on your new home! Moving is one of life's most exciting milestones — and also one of its more stressful ones. At Nest Well, we've helped hundreds of residents settle in smoothly, and we've distilled that experience into this comprehensive checklist.

Follow these steps and you'll be fully settled, protected, and comfortable from day one.

Before Move-In Day

Set up utilities in your name. Electricity, gas, water (if applicable), and internet should all be transferred or established in your name before you arrive. Ask your property manager for the specific utility providers for your home. Set up accounts 5–7 business days in advance to avoid gaps in service.

Purchase renters insurance. This is often required by your lease and always a smart decision. A basic policy runs $15–$25/month and protects your belongings in the event of fire, theft, or water damage. Your landlord's insurance covers the building — not your personal property.

Update your address. Notify your bank, employer, USPS, subscription services, and any government agencies (DMV, voter registration, etc.) of your new address. USPS mail forwarding can be set up at usps.com.

Document everything before you unpack. On move-in day, do a thorough walkthrough of the entire home before you bring in a single box. Take time-stamped photos and videos of every room, paying special attention to any existing damage — scuffs, stains, chips, anything. Email these to your property manager immediately. This protects your security deposit when you eventually move out.

Move-In Day

Complete your move-in inspection form. Your property manager should provide one. Fill it out carefully and honestly — note every imperfection, no matter how minor. Return a signed copy and keep one for yourself.

Locate the important stuff. Find the main water shutoff valve, circuit breaker box, and HVAC filters before you need them in an emergency. Knowing where these are could save you thousands in damage.

Test everything. Every door, window, lock, outlet, appliance, fixture, and HVAC vent. Report anything that doesn't work properly to your property manager on day one — it's much easier to address before you're settled in.

Change the locks — the right way. Some leases require you to request new keys or lock changes through the property manager. Others allow you to change locks yourself, as long as you provide a copy of the key. Review your lease and request this if you'd feel more secure.

First Week in Your New Home

Set up your resident portal. If your property management company has an online portal (Nest Well does!), register and set up auto-pay for rent. This ensures you never miss a payment and often provides an easy way to submit maintenance requests.

Meet your neighbors. Introducing yourself is old-fashioned but still valuable. Good relationships with neighbors can mean someone to watch out for packages, a heads-up about neighborhood events, or just a friendlier daily experience.

Locate emergency services. Know your nearest hospital, urgent care, pharmacy, and grocery store. Save your property manager's emergency maintenance number in your phone.

Ongoing: Your Resident Responsibilities

As a resident, you're responsible for basic maintenance: replacing light bulbs and batteries, changing HVAC filters (usually every 1–3 months), keeping the home clean, and reporting any issues promptly. Small leaks and minor problems that go unreported can become major (and expensive) repairs. Report issues early — your property manager will appreciate it and it protects your security deposit.

Welcome home. We're glad you're here.