New Home Checklist: What to Do After Buying a Home

Once you’ve got the keys to your new place, it can feel overwhelming knowing what to buy, what to sort first, and what can wait. A new home checklist is the easiest way to turn moving chaos into a clear, manageable plan. 

In short, your checklist should cover three stages: what to organise before moving day, what to buy for each room, and what to set up in your first month. This guide walks you through all of it, so you can settle into your new house with confidence rather than confusion.

If you’re still in the early stages, our tips on how to buy a house can help you get prepared before the big move.

Moving Timeline: How Long Until You’re Fully Settled?

Every move is different, but most buyers follow a similar pattern:

Week 1: Utilities set up, essential furniture assembled, basic food shop done.

Weeks 2–3: Broadband installed, minor repairs sorted, decor decisions made.

Month 1: Address updated everywhere, local services registered, house feeling like home.

Give yourself time. Very few people feel “fully settled” in the first week. A structured new house checklist helps you prioritise without rushing.

What You Need Before Moving Day

Preparation is key, and that’s why our new home checklist starts before you’ve even got the keys. Here’s what to organise before the removal van arrives.

Hire a Removal Company or Van

Book movers early, especially in peak seasons. Get quotes (to avoid surprises - they cost more than you think!), confirm insurance cover, and double-check timings.

Packing Supplies

Boxes, strong tape, labels, marker pens, bubble wrap and mattress covers. Label by room to make unpacking easier at the other side.

Utilities and Broadband

Arrange gas, electricity and water accounts to start from completion day. Book broadband installation as soon as possible, because wait times can be several weeks.

Change of Address

Update banks, subscriptions, insurance providers and your employer. You can always set up Royal Mail redirection for extra peace of mind.

Home Insurance

Top tip: Buildings insurance should start from exchange of contracts. Contents insurance should begin on moving day.

What You Need to Buy for Each Room

When thinking about things to buy for a new house, focus on essentials first. You can always upgrade later.

Kitchen

• Kettle and toaster

• Pans and basic cooking utensils

• Plates, cutlery and glasses

• Bin and cleaning supplies

• Fridge freezer if not included

Pro tip: The kettle is often the first thing you want unpacked, make it accessible.

Bathroom

• Toilet roll

• Hand soap

• Shower curtain if needed

• Towels

• Basic toiletries

It might sound obvious, but these are often forgotten in the rush.

Bedroom

• Bed and mattress

• Bedding and pillows

• Clothes storage

• Curtains or blinds for privacy

Prioritise good sleep in your first week. Everything feels harder when you’re tired.

Living Room

• Sofa or seating

• Lamps

• TV and stand

• Extension leads

Get that lamp unpacked early, lighting makes a big difference to how quickly a house feels like home.

Garden

• Lawnmower

• Outdoor bin

• Basic tools

• Garden furniture (if seasonally appropriate)

Cleaning Products

• Multi-surface cleaner

• Disinfectant

• Hoover

• Mop and bucket

• Sponges and cloths

Even if the property looks clean, most buyers prefer to do their own deep clean before fully settling in.

What You Need to Sort in Your First Month After Moving

The first few weeks are about admin and safety.

Take Meter Readings

Photograph gas, electricity and water meters on day one.

Change the Locks

For security, many homeowners replace locks after moving in.

Register for Council Tax

Contact your local authority to confirm your occupancy and banding.

Update Your GP and Dentist

Register with local healthcare providers if you’ve moved area.

Register to Vote

You must re-register at your new address.

Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Test alarms and replace batteries if needed.

Meet the Neighbours

A small introduction can go a long way.

If you’re thinking ahead to your next move, explore our guides for buyers for more practical advice.

Summary

A clear new home checklist makes settling in faster, calmer and far less stressful. Focus first on preparation, then essentials, then ongoing admin in your first month. You do not need everything at once. Build your home gradually.

Still searching for your perfect place? Browse our latest Properties for sale or contact Purplebricks for support from our team.

And if you’re preparing to move from your current home, don’t forget to book your free house valuation to get started.

Your move starts with the right plan (and a new home checklist).