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Buying a new home is a huge milestone. It’s one that can be an exciting, yet overwhelming, time in your life. From finding your dream home to planning out the redesign, the process can seem like a whirlwind for those first-time homeowners.
Besides all the paperwork and packing and unpacking, there are a few significant safety things you’ll want to check before the move-in day. If you are currently celebrating National Moving Month, by planning your moving day into your new home, here are all the things you’ll want to check before that day arrives:
Find and Fix Leaks
Though you have probably checked your plumbing during your home inspection, it’s still important to keep an eye out for little leaks and drips in the first few days ahead. A small leak can lead to water waste and potential water damage, too. Finding and fixing them now can ensure your new paint colors won’t be ruined by moisture damage.
By now, are you wondering how to spot a leak? Look for any condensation on your pipes, followed by moisture spots. If you notice that you have a pretty high water bill, there could be a potential water leak present. If you believe that is the case, it’s best to have a professional plumber assess the situation asap.
Drains and Toilet Check
The last thing you want is to jump into your new shower, after a long day at work, to find that water is already pooling up around your feet. Imagine that the first house guest you have goes to flush the toilet and finds a shocking (and somewhat embarrassing) overflow at their feet. Look for gurgles, smells, and slow draining water with your plumbing fixtures. Additionally, consider snaking or unclogging the drain — and if the issues still arise, it’s time to call in a professional.
Some other common toilet problems you’ll want to keep an eye out for include:
A toilet that doesn’t flush
Slowly fills up
Is leaking
Is noisy
Has a broken, stuck, or loose handle
No matter which of the above problems you are currently dealing with, resolving them all will require a unique solution that a professional can help you with.
Find The Slab Leaks
Known to be a very expensive and significant homeowner problem, it’s also one of the hardest to find. Warning signs come out of nowhere and can often be ignored until considerable damage is done. A slab leak can lead to high water bills, and if left unfixed — water damage, plumbing issues, mildew, and mold.
Since signs are not easy to spot, you’ll want to look for sudden warm spots on the floor, an increase in your water bill, cracks in your wall or floor, or sudden mildew or moisture on your rug.
Electrical Inspections
One of the most essential parts of your home safety guide is to check your electrical wiring. Your electrical system can be a potential fire hazard if ignored. On your own, you can do a visual check to ensure no evidence of corrosion or overheating in your panels, as well as a visual inspection of the wiring.
When you schedule your professional inspection, you can be sure that we will:
Check GFCI or ground fault circuit interrupters location and operations
Ensure you have the proper voltage
Check all outlets and light switches
Check areas of all smoke detectors and make sure they are operating properly
Not only can you ensure your home is electrically safe, but you can also save money, too.
Check Your HVAC System
If your new home has central air, you’ll want to ensure the system has been cleaned, adequately maintained, and is ready to tackle the hot summer days ahead. Turn it on, get it tuned up, and take a listen for any strange noises or odors. Getting this addressed, now, will save you a bigger headache down the road when it’s time to turn the system on.
Replace Those Filters
Did your last homeowner leave you with a surprise of dirty air filters? To ensure your air quality starts off high (and stays there), replace the filters. You can order them right on our website and set a reminder so that you can be sent automatic reminder emails to change them when needed.
Now that you’ve covered all the major potential issues in your home, it’s time to unpack! If you find any other issues along with your journey, give the experts a 1st Home & Commerical Services a call!