Just bought a home

A 30-day checklist for the handover, first week and first month in your new place.

Start with insurance from settlement day, utilities and internet connections, then record readings and update your address once you have the keys.

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Before the keys change hands

The week before settlement

Arrange house insurance from settlement dayAsk your lender and lawyer what evidence they need. Confirm the cover start date with your insurer before settlement.

TowerHome and contents insurance · link not available

AA InsuranceHome and contents cover · link not available

initioHome insurance · link not available

Arrange power and gas at the new addressCheck whether the home uses bottled or reticulated gas, and confirm connection dates with your retailer.

GlimpCompare electricity plans · link not available

CanstarCompare power providers · link not available

Octopus EnergyElectricity plans · link not available

Frank EnergyElectricity plans · link not available

Check broadband, fibre and Starlink optionsCheck address availability and installation lead times. Book a connection that suits your move-in date.

Compare.co.nzCompare broadband plans · link not available

StarlinkSatellite internet availability · link not available

Check KiwiSaver and first-home paperwork is completeConfirm any withdrawal, grant or lender documents with your lawyer, provider and the relevant agency.

Make a change-of-address listInclude bank, employer, insurer, subscriptions, NZTA, healthcare and anyone who sends you important mail.

When your lawyer confirms settlement

Settlement day

Collect keys and arrange to change exterior locksWait for settlement confirmation before taking possession. Consider changing or rekeying locks promptly.

Photograph power, gas and water meter readingsRecord the readings and date when you take possession; send them to providers if requested.

Walk through the home and record any urgent issuesTake dated photos and contact your lawyer or agent promptly if something differs from what was agreed.

Get the essentials working

Week 1

Review contents insurance for your belongingsCheck what is covered, exclusions, excesses and the date cover begins.

TowerHome and contents insurance · link not available

AA InsuranceHome and contents cover · link not available

initioHome insurance · link not available

Check smoke alarms and make an escape planTest alarms, note their locations and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance.

Submit your change-of-address updatesUpdate priority accounts first, then work through the list you made before settlement.

Confirm power, gas and broadband are connectedCheck the first meter readings and make sure any fibre or router equipment is working.

Settle into the regular running costs

Weeks 2 to 4

Check council rates and payment arrangementsConfirm the rating account, due dates and any settlement apportionment with your lawyer or council.

Write down maintenance and warranty datesKeep manuals, warranties, inspection reports and urgent maintenance notes together.

Review your first home budgetAdd actual utilities, insurance and rates so your ongoing costs reflect the home.

Questions about your loan?

A mortgage adviser can explain your loan terms and help you understand next steps. We do not provide personal financial advice.

SquirrelMortgage advice · link not available

Mortgages OnlineMortgage advice · link not available

Common questions after buying

When should home insurance start?

Arrange cover to start no later than settlement, and confirm the exact start date and lender evidence with your insurer, lender and lawyer.

What should I do first after getting the keys?

Record meter readings, check locks and smoke alarms, confirm essential utilities and internet, and update the most important addresses.

Does this checklist replace advice from my lawyer or lender?

No. It is a general planning aid. Ask your lawyer, lender, insurer or council about requirements for your specific purchase.

This guide is general information, not financial, legal or insurance advice. Your lawyer, lender, council and providers can confirm requirements for your situation.