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Getting the keys is exciting. Then you walk in and realize there’s a lot nobody told you about: where’s the water shutoff? When were these smoke alarms installed? Do I own a ladder? This checklist covers what to check, set up and buy during your first month, in a sensible order. Safety comes first, then maintenance, then the fun stuff.

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The quick answer

• Day 1: Change or rekey the locks, find the water shutoff and electrical panel, test smoke and CO alarms.
• Week 1: Note HVAC filter sizes, check the fire extinguisher, label the breaker panel.
• Week 2–3: Buy a basic tool kit and cleaning supplies, set up a maintenance schedule.
• Week 4: Start organizing and planning upgrades.
• Save décor and gadgets for after the basics.

Your first-day checklist

1. Change or rekey exterior locks. You don’t know how many keys are out there.
2. Find the main water shutoff. Learn how to turn it off in case of a leak.
3. Find the electrical panel. Check whether breakers are labeled.
4. Find the gas shutoff (if you have gas), and learn your utility’s guidance for gas leaks.
5. Test smoke and CO alarms. Check their manufacture dates; alarms have a limited service life listed by the manufacturer.

How we prioritized this list

1. Safety and security first.
2. Prevents expensive problems (leaks, missed maintenance).
3. Used in the first few months.
4. Reasonable cost.
5. Honest drawbacks for each purchase.

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Essentials to buy

1. Smoke and CO alarms (if needed)

Our pick: First Alert SCO5CN Battery-Operated Combination Smoke and CO Alarm · First Alert (also Lowe’s)

• Best for: Homes with old, missing, or past-date alarms.
• Why it made the list: Working alarms are one of the most important basics. Check local requirements for where they’re needed.
• Watch out for: Check the manufacture date on existing alarms and replace them according to the manufacturer’s guidance. Interconnected alarms can be hardwired; that may need an electrician.
• Typical price range: Check current price.

2. Fire extinguisher

Our pick: First Alert HOME1 Rechargeable Home Fire Extinguisher, UL rated 1-A:10-B:C · First Alert (also Target)

• Best for: Kitchen and garage.
• Why it made the list: Every home should have one where you can reach it quickly.
• Watch out for: Check the rating on the label matches the kinds of fires it’s meant for, and read the instructions before you need them. Check the gauge monthly.
• Typical price range: Check current price.

3. Water leak sensors

Our pick: Geeni Wi-Fi Water Leak Sensor (no hub required) · Home Depot

• Best for: Under sinks, behind the washer, by the water heater.
• Why it made the list: Inexpensive early warning for leaks you might not otherwise notice.
• Watch out for: Some need a hub for phone alerts. See our Smart Home Upgrades Under $100.
• Typical price range: Check current price.

4. Starter tool kit

Our pick: CRAFTSMAN 102-Piece Mixed Mechanics Tool Set (CMMT99449) · Lowe’s

• Best for: Move-in tasks: furniture, curtains, shelves, small repairs.
• Why it made the list: You’ll need tools in the first week. See our full tool guide for first-time homeowners.
• Watch out for: Big pre-made sets often include tools you won’t use.
• Typical price range: Check current price.

5. Step ladder

Our pick: Louisville Ladder 3 ft Aluminum Step Ladder, 225 lb, Type II (AS4003) · Home Depot

• Best for: Changing bulbs, smoke alarms, reaching high shelves.
• Why it made the list: You’ll use it constantly, and standing on chairs is how people get hurt.
• Watch out for: Check the ladder’s duty rating and height against your ceilings, and follow the safety labels on the ladder.
• Typical price range: Check current price.

6. HVAC filters (in the right size)

Our pick: Filtrete 1000 MPR Air Filters (in your size) · Filtrete

• Best for: Every home with forced-air heating or cooling.
• Why it made the list: Changing filters on schedule is one of the simplest maintenance tasks.
• Watch out for: Write down the exact size printed on your current filter. Follow your system and filter manufacturer’s replacement schedule.
• Typical price range: Check current price.

7. Plunger and drain snake

Our pick: Korky Beehive Max Toilet Plunger · Korky (also Lowe’s, Ace)

• Best for: Every bathroom.
• Why it made the list: You want these before you need them.
• Watch out for: Our pick is a toilet plunger. Get a flat cup plunger for sinks and tubs, and a plastic drain-cleaning strip for hair clogs.
• Typical price range: Check current price.

8. Surge protectors

Our pick: APC SurgeArrest Performance 11-Outlet Surge Protector (P11VT3) · Best Buy (also Lowe’s)

• Best for: TV, computer and other electronics.
• Why it made the list: Basic protection for your most expensive electronics.
• Watch out for: Not every power strip is a surge protector. Check the packaging and the joule rating.
• Typical price range: Check current price.

The first 30 days

Week 1: safety and security
– Change or rekey locks
– Test alarms, check manufacture dates
– Find the shutoffs and breaker panel
– Place a fire extinguisher in the kitchen

Week 2: learn your systems
– Write down HVAC filter size, water heater age, appliance models
– Label the breaker panel if it isn’t already
– Find your home’s warranty and manual paperwork

Week 3: maintenance setup
– Buy tools, cleaning supplies, and filters
– Set up a maintenance schedule (monthly, seasonal, yearly)
– Add leak sensors in risky spots

Week 4: organize and plan
– Set up garage, pantry and closet storage
– Make a list of upgrades by room and priority
– Set a budget for your first few projects

FAQ

What should a new homeowner do first?
Secure the home (locks), find the shutoffs, and test smoke and CO alarms.

What should I buy first for a new house?
Safety basics, a starter tool kit, a step ladder, filters, and cleaning supplies, before décor.

How much should I budget for home maintenance?
A commonly cited rule of thumb is about 1% of the home’s value per year, but it varies a lot with the home’s age and condition.

How do I keep track of home maintenance?
Use a calendar or a planner with monthly, seasonal and yearly tasks.

Next step

Related: Garage Tools for First-Time Homeowners · 10 Smart Home Upgrades Under $100

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