Moving into a new home is an exciting time in your life. You may spend the first few days debating which living room set will look best or what color you should paint the kitchen cabinets. However, before you make too many plans, you will need to ensure you have the essentials. Use this list to make sure you’re ready with items that will help boost the livability of your new home.

New locks

Changing the locks on all your exterior doors should be one of the first tasks you check off your to-do list, as you don’t know who may have a copy of the current key. You can install locks on your own, or you can hire a locksmith to switch them out for you. You’ll also need to update passwords or security codes for security systems and garage doors.

Fire extinguishers

Safety should be a top priority in your new home, and a fire extinguisher is an essential safety tool that every homeowner should have. Make sure to keep at least one fire extinguisher on each level of your home. There are several varieties of fire extinguishers to choose from, but most homes will need a multipurpose fire extinguisher that covers Class A (combustibles such as wood, paper, and cloth), Class B (liquids such as gasoline, grease, and oil), and Class C (electrical) fires.

Tools

A well-stocked tool kit will help you tackle any home improvement or repair project you have on your to-do list. There are countless tools you can add to your arsenal, but a new homeowner shouldn’t be without these essentials:

• Screwdrivers (slotted and Phillips-head)
• Tape measure
• Hammer
• Needle-nose pliers
• Utility knife
• Adjustable crescent wrench
• Hacksaw
• Safety gear (e.g., safety googles, work gloves, ear protection)

Additionally, a battery-powered drill will help you hang shelves and assemble furniture, and a level will help you make sure anything you hang on your walls is level.

Lawn and garden care items

There are a few essential items you will need to keep your new yard looking well maintained. A lawnmower and weed wacker will allow you to keep your grass trimmed. If your new home has a large yard, you may want to invest in a riding mower. Also, if you have trees in your yard that will drop leaves come fall, a leaf-blower is an excellent tool to eliminate some of the hassle of cleanup.

Ladder

Your new home may have areas that are hard to reach, so a ladder can be an essential tool for cleaning and renovations. You will want a ladder to help you reach your air vents, overhead cabinets, and ceiling. Depending on the size of your home, you may want to have multiple ladders, including a heavy-duty ladder to help you clean the gutters and a step stool to reach overhead storage inside your home. Make sure any ladder you buy can safely support your weight.

Window treatments

Window treatments are a must-have to help boost the privacy inside of your new residence. While you may have window treatments from your previous home, they may not fit your new windows. Whether you want to use curtains, drapes, or shades, it’s a good idea to install them within the first day in your new home.

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Even if your new home has these pieces of safety equipment installed already, it’s wise to replace them. Smoke detectors need replacing every ten years, and carbon monoxide detectors every seven years; both devices have the date of manufacture printed on them. You should install smoke detectors in each bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of your home.

Insurance

Review your homeowners insurance so you can be clear on what it covers. Many standard homeowners insurance policies won’t cover damage from flooding, earthquakes, landslides, or hurricanes. Depending on the location of your new home, you may want to consider purchasing additional coverage.