The first week in a new home is a series of small decisions. This list puts them in an order that protects the household first and the paperwork second.
Day one: safety and basics
Walk through with a flashlight. Find the main water shutoff, the electrical panel and the gas shutoff, and show everyone in the house where they are. Test the smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms, or replace the batteries. If you are not sure when the locks were last changed, ask the landlord or hire a locksmith.
Check that the refrigerator and the water heater are running, and that the thermostat holds a temperature. In Northern Nevada, confirm the heating works before the first cold night.
Day two and three: beds, bath and kitchen
Set up beds and the bathroom first, then the kitchen. A made bed and a working shower improve everything else. Use the first-night box you packed, then unpack kitchen essentials: pots, plates, a kettle, coffee.
Break down boxes as you empty them and stack the paper for recycling. A clear floor makes the rest of the unpacking faster.
- Beds and bedding.
- Bathroom essentials.
- Kitchen basics and a first grocery run.
- Lamps and a clear walking path.
Utilities, mail and address changes
Confirm utilities are on in your name. The utilities guide lists the steps, and the Reno guide on utilities covers the local providers. Check your USPS forwarding and update the address with your bank, employer and insurers using the change-of-address checklist.
The 30-day Nevada clock
If you moved from another state, Nevada law gives new residents 30 days to get a Nevada driver's license (NRS 483.245) and 30 days to register a vehicle (NRS 482.385). Book the DMV appointment in the first week. The driver's license page and the vehicle registration page list what to bring.
Test for radon and check the details
The U.S. EPA recommends testing every home for radon, a naturally occurring gas, and fixing a home that tests high. A short-term test kit is a simple first step. Also check the filter in the heating system, the dryer vent and the gutters, and walk the yard for hazards before children or pets go out.
Take photos of any damage that was already there and send them to the landlord or seller. Then check the load against your inventory and note anything missing. If you have a question about your delivery, call the O'Brien's office at 775-359-6683.