- First of all, install new locks. Since you probably have no idea who has a copy of your current keys, it is best not to take any chances. Consider making an extra set of keys and giving the copy to your parents or best friend.
- Of course, purchase a fire extinguisher for the kitchen and one for the garage and keep them handy. Check and replace if necessary, all the batteries in the smoke detectors.
- If the house needs any preventive maintenance do it as early as possible. It will be really frustrating having to deal with contractors or paint while all your possessions are located inside the house.
- Check to see that all possible damage, like wet wood conditions or walls' deterioration.
- Clean the gutters and downspouts and check that drain water is directed away from the house.
- Service all heating equipment and check the chimney of the fireplace for possible damage.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors in key locations.
- All medicines, poisons, or other dangerous elements have to be kept in child proof cabinets and cupboards.
- Create an emergency kit and storage in close to the exit.
- Keep flashlights, batteries, matches and candles in a special child proof drawer in an easy to reach place.
- Consider recording all the important house data and keep the papers related to your house in a safe or a drawer that locks. Also save all receipts of money spent for permanent improvements, repairs and any damage you had to fix. These can later be used for tax deduction purposes.
- In case you wish to renovate a part or even all of your house, you should better check with your neighborhoods local authorities first.
- After you are settled in, introduce yourself to your neighbors and offer them a "hello" gift. Usually people are shy to bang on your door and introduce themselves, so it is better if you break first the ice by introducing yourself. One of the main reasons people enjoy living where they live is that they know and bond with their neighbors.
Kids While your movers are unloading everything on delivery day, you have a few options, depending on their age, for your children.
Newborns and Toddlers It would make the day easier if you arrange to have your children out of the house, with friends or relatives. If this is not a possibility, hire a babysitter so you can focus on the delivery.
Over Five Years of Age Children that are over five years old can be your little helpers on this crazy day. Get them involved and have them help with the unpacking. (Editor’s Note: Bubble wrap is a sure way to keep them occupied).
Pets If you have any pets make sure they are not in the way of your movers. Put them in the backyard, or ask a friend or relative to watch your pet while your items are being delivered.
Approving the Delivery You should try to be present on the day of delivery so you can instruct the movers, inspect your items, and approve the delivery. If you are unable to be there, have a friend of relative accept delivery and pay the charges. It’s important to inform your moving company who will be representing you. Whoever signs the inventory sheet is approving the receipt of all the listed items. If anything is lost or damaged, document the damage and report it to your moving company agent.
Time to Unpack Many moving companies offer a standard unpacking service, but whether you choose to do the unpacking yourself or hire your movers to do that, you should try to keep all boxes and packing materials, as they will reduce the cost next time you move.
Handling The Payment Payment must be made upon delivery in cash, money order or cashier's check, unless you paid in advance. Personal checks are usually not accepted. It is required by federal law to pay upon delivery for interstate moves. It is also common practice to tip the foreman 15% of the total.
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Both Jonathon Hardcastle & Leo Nov are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.