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Important things to locate when you move into your new home

Sep 30, 2025
What you must find in new home
You’ve finally found your new home, and no doubt you’re excited to move in. Whether you’re a first time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, there are a few things to take care of when you get the keys. 
 
For a smooth transition, we’ve created a new house checklist with the most important things to locate, from security points to energy meters.
 

1. Utilities 

Setting up your internet and sending meter readings to your providers is something every new homeowner needs to do, so you get billed correctly from the start. Here’s how to locate your essential home utilities. 
 

Gas and electric meters, fuse box and gas valve 

Gas and electric meters are usually found within your meter box. Check exterior walls, cupboards and your basement if your property has one. For flats, they may be in a communal area. If you struggle to locate the box, get in touch with your landlord or estate agent. 
 
You can use these meters to provide readings to your existing or soon-to-be providers. This is an essential first step when you get the keys to prevent any additional charges incurred by the previous owners from being billed to you. 
 
The fuse box can usually be found near your meters, in areas such as storage cupboards or basements. You may want to label the switches to identify which controls each circuit. This can be handy during power outages or if you need to reset a tripped switch.
 
The gas valve, which controls the supply to your property, can often be found near the gas meter or boiler. Make sure to familiarise yourself with its operation for safety reasons.
 

Internet connection

Your new home may have an existing wall port where you can plug in a router, so it’s important to locate this when you move into your property. If you already have an internet provider and have let them know in advance about your move, the transfer should be scheduled. You can then plug in your router. 
 

2. Security points and access

The next step on your new house checklist is locating entrance locks, mailboxes and gates to help secure your home. 
 

Main entrance locks

The main entrance locks can be found on the front door. This may be one singular lock or several. Make sure you have keys for each of the locks. For added security, we recommend getting your new home’s locks changed when moving in. 
 

Gates and mailboxes

For homes with gardens or yards, there will likely be gate access at the front, back or side of your property. If they are lockable, make sure that you have the keys or codes.
 
If you have a lockable mailbox, this will usually be situated at the front of your home. It may be attached to an external wall or free-standing near your property. In flats, mailboxes are often located in communal areas.
 

3. Home controls 

Knowing how to shut off your water supply in emergencies or to set your thermostat to the perfect temperature are essential when moving into your new home.
 

Mains water shut-off valve

Locating the mains water shut-off valve – or stopcock – is crucial in case of leaks. This is usually below the kitchen sink. Alternatively, it could be in an airing cupboard, under the stairs or in a bathroom, garage or basement. If you live in a flat, you may have a communal stopcock.
 

Boilers and thermostats 

Boilers tend to be situated in the kitchen or bathroom, but sometimes they’re installed in other areas, like utility rooms. It’s important to understand how your boiler works and to check that it is fully functioning. 
 
Thermostats can be found either near your boiler or in easily accessible areas such as a landing or hallway. You may have multiple thermostats in a larger property, so make sure to check a few different places.
 
We recommend regular boiler maintenance to ensure efficient heating and hot water throughout every season.
 

4. Storage and maintenance  

Your new house checklist is not complete without locating essentials like emergency kits and your bin storage area. 
 

Emergency kits and tools

Your home may have a fire blanket or extinguisher – usually near the kitchen. It’s important to take note of where you can find these items in case of emergencies. If your new home doesn’t have them, you might want to purchase them. 
 
Creating a first aid kit with plasters and bandages or a household emergency kit with important documents and spare keys can also be useful when moving in. The kit can then be stored somewhere safe and accessible.
 

Waste and recycling bins

When moving into a new home, you’ll need to locate your outdoor bins, including general waste, recycling and garden waste. 
 
Your bins may be at the front or back of your home. There may be an outdoor bin storage area, or if you live in a flat, a communal bin area. Take note of the day you need to put certain bins out and check where your neighbours place them.  
 
 
Browse our brand-new homes across the UK and discover our homebuying offers. Call or visit our Sales Advisers and start your journey with David Wilson Homes today.
 

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