Moving into a new property is more exciting than a first date on Valentine’s Day . . . and the relationship with your home is likely to last as long too.
However, it can also prove stressful, if you don’t plan ahead.
This is especially true if you leave the important stuff to the last minute or forget about it altogether – especially the aspects that are related to safety in the home.
Here’s a list of top priorities to make sure your move with s1homes is smooth and safe.
Smoke signals
Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide monitors are incredibly important, so for your safety and peace of mind make sure these are in good working order. Check the batteries are working as soon as you move in by pressing the test buttons. If you have any doubts about their worthiness for service, replace them. If you’re renting, ask your landlord to do this. These devices are not expensive and they could save your life.
Live wires
You should have an inspection report about the general state of the property’s electrical cables, so you’ll know in advance if there is a need to get the electrics sorted. Any sort of job this big should only be done by a professional electrician – your job is to make sure you have this set up so it’s completed before you fully settle in and put the kettle on.
Hot water
It’s one thing looking forward to a relaxing bath but another to find yourself in hot water. Many’s the horror story we’ve heard at s1homes of new movers not checking their boiler, especially that all-important pressure gauge. This appliance will normally be verified as part of the sale process but it pays to double-check before you move – and have a good boiler repair scheme already in place. If you have a landlord, it’s their duty to make sure this is working.
Soots you, sir
If your dream property from s1homes is a cottage in the country, you may be looking forward to sitting by a traditional open fire. This means you’ll have a chimney to think about. Ask the previous owner or landlord when this was last cleaned: they should have a certificate to prove this. Before lighting a fire, ensure the chimney is clear. If you have any doubts, a professional chimney cleaner is a must.
Spick and span
Cleanliness might seem nothing to worry about, as most homes are professionally cleaned before a move. But you never know! You don’t want your toddler nibbling on a four-year-old turkey sandwich fished from under the carpet or Fido sniffing out discarded laundry from a cupboard. For peace of mind, roll up those sleeves on day one – or treat yourself to a professional cleaning company.
If the property is carpeted, check with the previous owner or your landlord when the flooring was last steam-cleaned. If you’re tenant and it’s not in a good condition, you can ask the landlord to cover the cost of this cleaning before you move.
For hot properties that are always worth your attention visit s1homes and make sure you follow our safety tips before you move in.