New Homeowners: This Safety Checklist is a Must

12.09.2018 HOME IMPROVEMENT 0.0 0

Finally having your own home can be overwhelming, with all of the things you need to keep in mind. Maybe you have considered hiring a home inspector to evaluate the property before you move in, which is a good decision, but there are things that can be missed. Some hazards can go unchecked and, as a result, your home safety can be threatened.

So, check this list of things that you should go through before you can really say your home is safe.

Change the locks

You can't know how many previous owners have the spare key, so the safe thing is to change all of them. The best option is to install smart locks and secure deadbolts. Smart locks will allow you to lock or unlock your home by using your smartphone even if you are away.

It's also good to have several spare keys that you can give to a trusted neighbor or a friend.

Check the pipes

Take a good look at all the pipes in your home - check for signs of corrosion and leakage, as well as rust stains. If you see something you're not so sure looks good, it's better to call a plumbing service to inspect it properly. You also need to know where to shut off the water. It would also be good if you installed a few sensors on the pipes so that the water is shut off if a pipe bursts and you're not at home at that moment.

Test smoke detectors

You have to check all the smoke detectors in your home. If you live in a house with several levels, there should be at least one smoke detector at each level. Don't forget to check carbon monoxide detectors, too. In case you don't have one, install one - better safe than sorry.

You can also have your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monitored by a professional when you're away. That way, the fire department will be automatically dispatched if an alarm goes off.

Security cameras

There are different types of security cameras that you can have installed. For example, you can have a video doorbell - it has a motion-activated alert and a two-way talk, meaning you can see who's at the door and answer it through an app.

You should also have floodlight security camera in your front yard and backyard. Not only will it provide you with motion activated light at night but it will also sound the alarm in case there's an intruder in your yard.

Reliable gate and fence

The gate and the fence provide you both with privacy and security so it's very important they are reliable and in good condition. Tall fences with growing green walls are an excellent way of achieving privacy and blocking the noise from the outside. Still, security is even more important, so you need to make sure your fence and the gate aren't damaged in any way. A damaged gate or fence is simply inviting an intruder to go inside your yard. A high-security gate with motor and safety system isn't reserved only for companies' estates - many homeowners want these features to be available to them, too. That's why products like Portcullis gates and automation devices that accompany high-security gates have to suit homes, too. You can always install a gate that is both secure and doesn't interfere with the style of your home - it's a better option than relying on the existing gate and fences.

Inspect your electrical system

When you move into your new home, you need to get familiar with the new electric system. This means learning where the meter and electrical circuit box are - you never know when you'll need to check them. Also, a safe move is to know how to safely shut off the electrical circuit box in case an emergency occurs.

The next step is to inspect the switches and sockets - if they look weary, replace them. It could also mean that the wiring is old so you can consider consulting an electrician. Lastly, check the power points in your home - you may decide you'll need more of them.

Damp and mold

In the long run, damp and mold can be a health hazard as well as a safety hazard. They can do incredible damage to your home if you don't notice them in time and deal with them. Look carefully for watermarks, paint damage and stains all around your home. Any sign of them can mean there is a problem with the ventilation system. By opening the cupboards and cabinets, you'll be able to detect a damp smell - another reason to inspect the nearby area more closely.

Final comment

Achieving safety is crucial when moving into a new home. Once you have gone through the whole checklist and dealt with potential issues, you will sleep a lot better afterwards.

Guest post by Audrey Taylor

About the Author

Audrey Taylor was born in San Francisco, and moved to Adelaide at the age of five. She is a marketer researcher and social media manager on hold, full - time mommy of a cheerful two-year-old. Audrey graduated from Queensford college, worked in a couple of marketing agencies across Australia, and is eager to learn more about business and share her experiences. She traveled across Europe. Her hobbies include home decor, fashion, travel, music, old movies. Follow Audrey on Twitter.

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