The first seven days set the tone for everything. Handle these seven items and you have already avoided the most common (and most expensive) first-year mistakes.
① Return the previous owner's mail
Write "Return to Sender" on anything not addressed to you and drop it back in the mailbox. Do not open it — federal offense — and do not toss it.
② Transfer every utility as of the closing date
PSE&G (electric/gas), Suez or Veolia (water), Optimum or Verizon FiOS (internet). Call each, give the closing date as the start-of-service date, and confirm auto-pay.
③ Confirm your homeowner's policy is actually in force
The binder you signed at closing is not a policy. Call your carrier the week after closing and verify the effective date, dwelling coverage, and deductible on file.
④ Re-key or replace every lock ($200–$400)
You have no idea how many spare keys are out there. Locksmith re-key runs $200–$400 for a typical single-family home. Do not skip this.
⑤ Locate the shut-offs and the panel
Find the main water shut-off, the electrical panel, and the gas shut-off. Every adult in the household should know where they are and how to use them. Store all manuals in one binder.
⑥ Test smoke & CO detectors — replace every battery
Push the test button on every unit. Replace every battery even if it looks fine. Detectors older than 10 years should be replaced.
⑦ Change of address — everything, everywhere
USPS online forward ($1.10), NJ driver's license, SSA, banks, credit cards, employer HR, subscriptions. USPS forwards for 12 months only — use that window to update the source.
Re-read the inspection report
Items marked "monitor" are your year-one checklist. Lifted roof flashing → future leaks. Hairline basement cracks → water intrusion. Clogged dryer vent → the #1 residential fire cause. Address them before they escalate.
Watch out (season-specific)
Closing Oct–Nov: schedule sprinkler winterization immediately ($80–150). Appliance warranties do NOT transfer — decide within week one whether to buy a Home Warranty ($400–700/yr).
Save these contacts (do it now)
2 plumbers · 1 electrician · 1 primary HVAC + 1 backup · 24-hour locksmith · roofer · landscaper · snow plow (contract by October before they fill up).