Things Not to Forget When Moving Into Your First Place

Utilities

• Contact your local utility companies. You will have to set up a new account with the water and electric companies if you are moving into your first place. Keep their contact information in a conspicuous place so you can notify them of any problems if they arise. If you want a land-line telephone or an Internet connection, you will also have to set up a new account or notify them of where you are moving to so that they can service your request.

Circuit Breaker

• Know where the circuit breaker is in your new place. If your electricity goes out and you do not know where it is it will be difficult to find it in the dark. You should familiarize yourself with the labeling on the circuit breaker box so that you know which breakers control each section of your place.

Landlord

• If you are renting your first place, make sure that you maintain a working relationship with your landlord. You should have your landlord's telephone number and email address in case of an emergency or for simple questions or problems you may have. You should also have thorough knowledge of any and all rules stipulated in your leasing contract. If your first place is a house, make sure that you know when your mortgage payments are due each month to ensure that you do not become delinquent on any of your payments.

Safety Precautions

• Get an emergency or first-aid kit and put it in a central location where everybody in the house can get to it quickly. You should also make sure you install smoke detectors in your place if there are none, and if you already have smoke detectors make sure they are in full working order. Have a set of general household tools in case you have to make any impromptu repairs.

Locks

• Change your locks while you move into your first place, especially if it is not a new house. If keys are floating around that fit in the keyholes to your house, you could wind up becoming a victim of theft. Make sure you receive permission from your landlord to change the locks if you are renting, or ask your landlord if she will change the locks for you.

Address

• Upon moving into your first place, you should visit your local post office and request an address change. If you have creditors such as phone or cable companies, notify them of the address of your new place as well.