New resident checklist: before move-in, day one, week one, first month

Before move-in

• Residency approval and move-in date confirmed in writing.
• Lease and community rules received, read, and questions asked.
• Water, electric, gas, and internet scheduled to be on by day one.
• Change of address filed with the post office. Bank, employer, and subscriptions updated.
• Mailbox or cluster box number and key confirmed.
• Parking for the moving truck worked out with the office. Neighbors given a heads-up.

Day one: safety first, then unpack

• Turn on the water and check under every sink for leaks. Find and label the main shutoff.
• Test outlets in each room. Label the breaker panel.
• Test every smoke and carbon monoxide alarm. Replace batteries as needed.
• Put a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and one near an exit.
• Walk around the outside. Check skirting, steps, and railings.
• Take photos of the home and lot, inside and out.
• Save the office, maintenance, and utility phone numbers.
• Find out where you’d go in a tornado or severe storm warning. A manufactured home isn’t a safe shelter in a tornado, so know the nearest sturdy building or storm shelter.

Week one

• Confirm trash and recycling days.
• Visit the clubhouse, laundry, or pool, and get any access codes or fobs.
• Meet the neighbors on each side. Swap numbers for emergencies.
• Review parking, quiet hours, and pet rules.
• Register pets and vehicles with the office if the community requires it.

First 30 days

• Store things properly. Nothing flammable under the home, and fire lanes clear.
• If it’s cold season, check pipe insulation and heat tape. See winterizing.
• Get written approval before adding a shed, fence, or any improvement.
• Add a local plumber, electrician, and heating and cooling company to your contacts.
• Go to a resident meeting or event if there is one.