Congratulations, you’ve just moved into your new home! But now what? You’ll need to be prepared for the unexpected when it comes to maintaining your new home. Here is our guide to the 12 key items you’ll need in your arsenal to care for and maintain your new home.

1. Specialized Tools

​Many people own basic tools, like a hammer, screwdriver, drill, level, tape measure, wrench, pliers, staple gun, and utility knife. However, there are some other tools that are specifically useful for a homeowner. For example:

• A stud finder- This makes it easier to know where it’s ok to make a hole. It can be used for hanging pictures or shelving.

• A hand saw- There’s no need for an expensive power saw, a cross-cut saw is a good option since it produces smooth edges. It can be used for small household projects

• A ratchet set- Needed to loosen and tighten bolts, especially for tight spots where you can’t turn a wrench around.

• A pry bar that has a clawed end and a flat end- This can be used for tasks like pulling out nails and separating drywall. You can also use it to take off trim or molding and break up tiles.

2. Tool Kit

You’ll want one of these to organize and carry your new tools in. There are a variety of good options. You can put tool bucket liner in a 5 gallon bucket, buy a handyman belt, or opt for an old school metal tool box.

3. Extension Cord Organizer

Avoid getting your extension cords tangled up and impossible to unravel with an organizational device. You can buy a cord management device or you can make your own. One method is to use pegboard, loops, and Velcro straps to create an organizational system. Don’t forget to buy a heavy-duty extension cord that can be used outdoors.

4. Wet-dry Vacuum

These come in handy for spills of all kinds. You’ll want one that can pick up liquids, dirt and small objects such as rocks. They come in handy for vacuuming the car, and cleaning every room in the house. These are definitely keepers when it’s time to move again.

5. Fire Extinguisher

An essential safety item to have on hand for any home. Fire can cause a panic, and you don’t want to have to come up with a make-shift solution in an emergency. The U.S. Fire Administration has a guide to all the different types of fire extinguishers. There are five for different situations, including ones specialized for cooking oils, wood, and paper. Choose which extinguisher or extinguishers are best for your home.

6. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Part of the responsibility of homeownership is the duty to keep everyone in your new home safe. You will want to immediately have working smoke detectors on each floor of the house. A carbon monoxide detector is also essential, as CO can be a more common threat than a fire. There are even devices that can detect both smoke and carbon monoxide, so you’ll only have to make one purchase.

7. Emergency Prep Kit

FEMA has a comprehensive list of supplies needed for emergencies. Some of the items you’ll want to have on hand include cash, food, water, infant supplies, and medications. You’ll need to stock supplies for every household member, pets, too, for up to 3 days.

8. Ladder(s)

There are many different types of ladders to choose from depending on the type of space and usage that you need the ladder for. Here are some specifications to be aware of when choosing ladders.

• How high you need to go- You should be aware of safety tips for extension ladders.

• Where you will need to use it - Always have the four legs of a step ladder on a stable, flat area.

• How much weight it can support - Looking at the ladder’s duty rating will tell you this.

The Red Cross also recommends an escape ladder for homes with multiple stories.

9. Headlamp

This becomes essential when you need your hands free to work and you also need a light source. Headlamps are useful for many tasks, particularly working on the faucet and other plumbing related tasks.

10. Plunger

You don’t want to have to wait until you absolutely need one to get one. Always have a plunger ready in case of emergency. You can get a standard heavy duty one, though it may be too large for newer, smaller toilets. Simple Human makes a chrome and white toilet plunger that is convenient and attractive.

11. New Door Lock

In most cases you will not be the first person to live in your home, and there’s no way of knowing how many people have a set of keys to the house. Within the first week of owning a new home, you should get all the locks replaced and make copies of the new keys. To make things simpler, you can use the same key for all the locks. You can opt for a standard lock, add a deadbolt, or switch to an electronic keyless lock.

12. Security System

Having peace of mind that your home is safe and protected is invaluable. Even safe neighborhoods can have burglaries from time to time, making a security system a wise investment. It’s especially important for people who spend large amounts of time away from home. There are many options to choose from, so any homeowner should be able to find one that’s affordable. Here is a convenient guide for choosing a security system. ​

Bonus Item!

You’ve got all your bases covered and now your prepared to run a safe, well-stocked home. Now, add a final touch, a doormat! This will give you the opportunity to add your personality to your home and it’s a great finishing touch to welcome guests. It’s also practical, keeping mud and dirt from getting into your home. Just use rug pads or grippers to hold it in place. Now enjoy your new home!

Sources:

https://www.houselogic.com/buy/moving-in/new-home-essentials/?site_ref=mosaic https://prudentreviews.com/what-to-buy-for-a-new-house/ https://www.safewise.com/blog/things-youll-need-first-home/

https://www.harrisonburghomeowner.com/