Moving into a new home is exciting, but it also comes with a long list of things to take care of. From setting up utilities and services to updating your address and securing home insurance, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by everything that needs to get done. 

To help you stay organized, we’ve put together a complete checklist covering everything from 30 days before your move to 30 days after. Whether you’re buying or renting, this guide walks you through the key steps to take at each stage so you can avoid last-minute stress and settle into your new home as quickly as possible.

Key takeaways

Before you move, set up utilities, insurance, and logistics. On moving day, inspect your home and test everything. Afterward, change locks, update your address, and handle key services. Follow the checklist below for a complete step-by-step guide. 

30 days before moving into a new home

Finalize your mortgage

If you just bought a house, this is the stage where your mortgage is fully locked in and ready for closing. This process typically involves: 

• Submitting final documents (down payment, proof of income, employment)
• A review of the property (often includes an appraisal to confirm its value)
• Confirming your interest rate, term, and mortgage conditions
• Signing the official mortgage agreement 

Meet with a lawyer or notary

You’ll need to meet with a lawyer or notary to complete the purchase of your new home and transfer ownership into your name. They handle the legal side of the transaction by reviewing all documents, registering the home in your name, managing the transfer of funds from you to the lender, and ensuring there are no issues with the property title. 

In Quebec, you must meet with a notary, while in all other provinces, you can have a lawyer or another authorized person do this. 

Buy homeowners insurance

Although home insurance isn’t legally mandatory, your mortgage lender will likely require it. “Before lending you money to buy a house, most banks or mortgage lenders will require you to purchase home insurance coverage, name them as a mortgage lender on your policy, and provide proof of home or condo insurance purchase,” states the Insurance Bureau of Canada. 

Fortunately, YouSet makes it easy to compare home insurance quotes and coverage options in minutes. You can customize your policy to fit your needs and budget, with the best price year after year. 

Get the best price on homeowners insurance year-after-year

Get a quote

Purchase home essentials

Buy basic essentials before you move, including: 

• Cleaning supplies
• Toilet paper
• Soap
• Towels
• Toiletries
• Cooking essentials (pots, pans, cutlery, dishes, cooking tools)
• Laundry detergent
• Hangers
• Curtains

Don’t worry about decor right away; focus on the essentials first, and you can build out your space over time. 

Book a moving truck or movers, if required

Depending on your budget and how many large items you’re moving, you may want to hire movers or rent a truck and move everything yourself. If you’re moving in the busy summer months, book early, at least 30 days before the move. 

7 days before moving into a new home

Set up utilities 

Set up your utilities, including electricity, water, and gas, so that they’re good to go before you arrive. Some provinces have more than one main energy provider, so you can choose which one you want to go with. Contact the provider to open an account in your name and schedule the service to start on your move-in date. 

Set up internet services

Each province has multiple internet providers, so you’ll need to shop around and choose the best plan and company for your needs. Once you’ve chosen, setting up your service is usually pretty straightforward. You’ll need to:

• Call the provider or create an account online
• Book an installation appointment (if needed) 
• Receive your modem or router and complete the installation 

Popular internet providers in Canada include:

• Bell
• Rogers 
• Telus
• Videotron
• Shaw
• Virgin Mobile

Confirm how to pick up keys, garage openers, and security codes

Confirm exactly how and when you’ll receive the keys, garage openers, and security codes for your new home. This might be arranged through your real estate agent or notary/lawyer on closing day. It’s a good idea to test everything right away and update any security codes once you move in. 

Plan moving day logistics

If you’re moving into a condo, you may need to reserve the elevator in advance. It’s also a good idea to check whether you’ll need a temporary parking permit or a designated space for your moving truck, and to confirm your movers or coordinate with any friends or family helping you on moving day.

Set up mail forwarding 

Even if you update your address everywhere, some mail may still go to your old home. Setting up mail forwarding with Canada Post is pretty straightforward and ensures you don’t miss anything important. Here’s how you can do so online: 

• Create or log in to your Canada Post account
• Enter your old and new addresses
• Upload a piece of photo ID
• Choose a duration for the service (4 or 12 months)
• Pay the fee 

It can take about five days to activate, so set it up before you move. 

The day you move into a new home

Investigate the condition of the home upon first arrival 

Before you start unpacking, do a quick walkthrough of the space. Check for damages or anything that doesn’t match what was agreed on. If you’re renting, it’s a good idea to take photos and videos for your records, so you’re protected if any disputes arise later. 

Test all appliances and systems 

Turn on major appliances and systems to make sure everything is working properly. This includes:

• Heating and cooling system
• Hot water 
• Lights 
• Outlets
• Included appliances (fridge, stove, washer, dryer, etc.)

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Check that all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning and have working batteries. These are legally required in all homes in Canada and are essential for protecting you and your home. 

Locate fire extinguishers, circuit breakers, and emergency exits

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with important safety features in your home. Find your electrical panel in case you need to reset a breaker, locate the fire extinguishers, and know how to exit your home in an emergency. 

Complete your internet installation 

If you’ve scheduled your internet setup for moving day, make sure it’s installed and working as expected. Test the connection, set up your network, and confirm speeds so you’re ready to go. 

7 days after moving into a new home

Change locks and have new keys made

Change the locks and have new keys made to ensure your safety and peace of mind. You don’t know who may still have copies of the old keys, so updating the lock ensures you’re the only one with access. If you’re renting, check with your landlord, as some may already change the locks between tenants. 

Register with local services 

Take some time to register for any local services required by your municipality. This varies across Canada, but can include:

• Garbage and recycling collection: Some municipalities require you to register your address or request bins to start pickup.
• Parking permits: You may need a residential permit for street parking near your home.
• Property taxes: If you’ve purchased a home, update your ownership details to receive bills and set up payments. 
• Voter registration: Update your address to ensure you’re registered for municipal, provincial, and federal elections. 
• Pet registration: Many municipalities require licenses for dogs (and sometimes cats). 

Research garbage, recycling, and compost schedules and rules

Collection schedules and sorting rules vary by municipality, so check your local guidelines. Find out your pickup days, which materials go in what bins, and whether there are specific requirements for things like compost, yard debris, or bulk waste. 

Install security devices, if needed

If your home doesn’t already have an adequate security system, you may want to install devices like a doorbell camera, motion sensors, or a smart lock. Plus, you may be eligible for a discount on your home insurance if you opt to install a professionally monitored security system. 

Test all plumbing fixtures for leaks

Keep an eye on your sinks, showers, and toilets to make sure everything is working properly. Check under sinks and around fixtures for any signs of leaks, drips, or water damage. Catching small issues now means avoiding bigger and more expensive repairs later. 

30 days after moving into a new home 

Update your address

Update your address across all important accounts. This includes your bank, credit cards, insurance providers, and government services like the CRA and your provincial health insurance plan. Don’t forget subscriptions, delivery services, and online shopping accounts. 

Purchase any remaining home essentials or furniture

After living in your new home for a few weeks, you’ll have a better sense of what you need. You can now buy practical items that improve your day-to-day comfort, including extra furniture and home essentials. 

Schedule any important maintenance or inspections

If you haven’t already, book any recommended maintenance or inspections for your home. This can include:

• HVAC servicing
• Pest control
• Chimney cleaning 
• General home inspection 

Being proactive now ensures your home stays in good condition and prevents issues later.