Educational checklist only: This page helps you prepare and organize. It is not legal, medical, insurance, safety, construction, travel, veterinary, or professional advice.
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Documents
Keep purchase, mortgage, title, insurance, inspection, and warranty records together.
Create a follow-up list from home, well, septic, pest, roof, or specialty inspections.
Utilities, waste collection, internet, alarm, HVAC, plumber, electrician, and municipality contacts.
Use one physical or digital location for important records.
First week
Locks, garage codes, alarm codes, and shared access should be reviewed.
Water shutoff, electrical panel, gas/oil shutoff where applicable, and main equipment.
Smoke, CO, and other required alarms should be checked according to instructions.
Flashlights, batteries, plungers, filters, cleaning supplies, and garbage/recycling setup.
First month
Filters, gutters, lawn/snow, water testing, septic, HVAC, and seasonal tasks.
Ask questions about deductibles, exclusions, and documentation needs.
Photos of major rooms, exterior, appliances, and equipment can help future records.
Separate safety, water, electrical, structural, and comfort items.
Long-term
Keep receipts, permits, photos, and contractor notes.
High bills can reveal issues or usage changes.
Update twice a year.
Live in the home before buying every tool or upgrade.
How to use this checklist
Review the items before the task starts, not only at the last minute. Check off what applies, copy the unfinished items if you need a short action list, and save relevant receipts, photos, dates, and contact names in your own records.
Some items may not apply to your situation. Local rules, official guidance, product instructions, building policies, insurance requirements, and qualified professional advice should take priority where they apply.