10 essential questions to ask when moving into a new home

One minute you’re collecting quotes from removal companies and taping up boxes, and the next, you’re stepping through the door of your brand-new home.

To help make your move easier and more enjoyable, this guide answers some of the most common moving questions asked by new homeowners, so you can feel confident as you settle in.

1. What should I do first when I move into a new build?

Before you start unpacking or plug in the kettle, take a few moments to explore your new home and enjoy discovering your space. Even though you’ll have had a full home demonstration with Tilia Homes before moving day, this is your chance to get familiar with your home firsthand.

Walk through each room, open doors and windows, turn on lights and check cupboard space. And remember, our Tilia Homes customer care team is always on hand if you have questions.

2. How do the important controls and systems work?

Once you’ve had a look around, take a moment to locate your boiler, fuse box, stopcock and utility meters. Knowing where they are, and how to use them, means you’ll be prepared from day one.

If you’re not sure how something works, our Home Demonstration Videos, which cover everything from heating controls to water systems, are a great place to start.

3. When should I take meter readings?

Take clear, time-stamped photos of your gas, electricity and water meters as soon as you move in. This ensures you won’t be billed for usage before you move in and helps to set up your accounts accurately.

If you don’t have a supplier set up, your home will have a default provider. You can switch this later if needed, but giving them the correct starting readings is essential.

4. What safety features should I check?

One of our top moving day essentials is to make sure all your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working correctly. Press the test buttons and then make a note in your calendar to check them regularly.

If your new build has external doors to a garage or garden, take a moment to ensure locks and handles are secure. These quick checks help you feel confident and fully settled in your beautiful new home.

5. Do I need to clean a new build before moving in? 

Your Tilia home will have been professionally cleaned before you get the keys, but a quick wipe-down of kitchen worktops, bathroom surfaces, and floors can help you start fresh.

This is also a good opportunity to familiarise yourself with your finishes and surfaces. Tilia Homes use durable, low-maintenance materials throughout, making it easy to keep your space looking fresh and tidy.

6. What should I unpack first after moving in?

Before any boxes come off the van, start with your largest furniture, like beds, sofas, wardrobes, and appliances. These bulky pieces are harder to manoeuvre when the house is full of boxes, so ensure they have priority. Once your key furniture is in place, your space will instantly start to feel more like home.

Next, unpack the essentials you’ll need to get through your first night comfortably. In the kitchen, unpack your kettle, mugs, tea or coffee, a few plates, cutlery, and any simple cooking equipment you might need. For the bathroom, have toilet paper, towels, toiletries, and any daily medication ready to go. In the bedroom, focus on making the bed and having a clean pair of pyjamas you can get into at the end of a busy first day. 

7. Where should I update my address after moving?

Once you’re settled, take time to update the following: 

• Banks and credit card providers
• Insurance companies
• Your GP and dentist
• DVLA for your driving licence
• Council tax office
• TV licensing
• Online shopping accounts

To avoid missing anything, set up a Royal Mail redirect for at least three months while your address changes filter through.

8. When can I start personalising my new build?

It’s important to let your new home settle for around 12 months before painting or wallpapering, but there are plenty of ways to make it feel like yours straight away.

Start with simple touches like plants, lamps, cushions, or artwork. If you selected any upgrades when reserving your home, such as premium kitchen finishes or flooring, these personalisation touches will already be in place. Over time, you can gradually add your own style to make the home truly yours.

9. How can I settle into a new area?

Settling into a new area takes time, but living in a new build community often makes the transition easier. Because many of your neighbours will have moved in recently too, there’s a natural sense of community right from the start. Keep an eye out for local Facebook groups or residents’ WhatsApp chats, as these are a great way to hear about nearby events, services, and opportunities to get involved.

You can also get to know your new surroundings by exploring on foot. New build developments by Tilia Homes are carefully located with local amenities, schools, shops, and green spaces nearby, so you’ll soon get familiar with the best places to walk the dog, pick up essentials, or enjoy a coffee.

10. What if something isn’t quite right?

Occasionally, small issues can arise with new builds, like doors needing adjustment and minor appliance tweaks. This is completely normal and if you’ve brought a Tilia home, you’re in safe hands. 

If you notice anything, just contact your local Tilia Homes customer care team, who are always on hand to help.  

New builds for sale with Tilia Homes 

Still looking for the perfect location or floorplan? Explore our range of energy-efficient homes for sale across the UK here, each designed with sustainability, comfort and community in mind.