Taking possession of a new home in Calgary is one of the most exciting milestones for any homeowner. Over the years, I’ve helped many buyers move into their first home, their dream property, and everything in between. The process doesn’t stop once you receive the keys, though. The first few days after possession can make a big difference in how safe, comfortable, and stress free your move feels.

From my work with Calgary buyers and sellers, I’ve seen almost everything that can go right or wrong during move in week. Small details like changing locks or finding the water shut off valve can save you from costly headaches later. In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly what to do after taking possession so you can protect your investment, stay organized, and settle into your new Calgary home with confidence.

Change Locks and Codes

The first thing to do after taking possession is to change all locks and access codes. You never know who might still have a key, so replace every exterior lock, garage keypad, and door code.

I once had a situation where the new owners entered the home a few days after possession only to find the previous owners in the home removing some items they had forgot.

Pro Tip: Change keypad codes and reprogram garage openers too. It is quick and worth the peace of mind.

Create a Lockout Plan

Everyone locks themselves out at some point. Plan ahead by giving a spare key to a trusted friend or family member or hiding one securely outside.

Locksmith calls can cost a couple hundred dollars, and it always seems to happen at the worst possible time. A simple plan saves time and stress.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Even if your home passed inspection, test every detector and replace all batteries. It is an easy job that ensures safety for your family.

Find Your Water Shut Off Valve and Winterize Taps

Know exactly where the main water shut off valve is and how to use it. If a pipe bursts, especially in a Calgary winter, this knowledge can prevent major flooding.

Also learn how to winterize outdoor taps. Find where the water line is, shut it off from inside, then open the outdoor taps to drain moisture. This prevents frozen lines when temperatures drop in Calgary.

Locate and Label the Electrical Panel

Most panels are in the basement mechanical room, but condos sometimes hide them in less obvious spots. Find yours right away.

If circuits are not labelled, take the time to label each one. It helps during emergencies and avoids confusion when you trip a breaker while plugging in appliances on moving day.

Update the Security System

If your new home has an existing security system, ask about it before you move in. Find out which company it’s with and see if the seller can deactivate their account before possession. This helps avoid any confusion once you take ownership.

After possession, contact the security provider to set up your own account and update the system details. Change any access codes for keypads or smart locks so that only you and your household have control.

You can also connect newer systems to your phone for remote monitoring. It’s a simple step that provides extra peace of mind in your first few weeks settling in.

Inspect and Service the HVAC System

Check the furnace, humidifier, and air conditioner right away. Many Calgary homes have built in humidifiers attached to the furnace, and they often need adjustment.

If the air is too dry, your wood floors can crack. Too humid, and you will get condensation on windows. Adjust it seasonally and replace the furnace filter.

Have the system serviced if it is older or if you do not know the last maintenance date. This includes the furnace, hot water tank, and air conditioning unit.

Schedule Professional Cleaning

Many sellers leave the home in good condition, but plenty don’t. Even when a place looks clean during the showing, you might find it needs more attention once the furniture is gone. A deep clean is always worth it before unpacking.

It can be tough at times to include professional cleaning in the purchase contract, especially in a hot market. Most sellers prefer simple terms and may decline extra conditions.

Do not schedule cleaners for the day of possession, since key release can happen late in the afternoon and can be unpredictable. Book them for the following day instead.

Set Up Utilities and Internet

Before moving in, make sure utilities are set up in your name. This includes water, gas, electricity, recycling, stormwater, and sewer.

I find ENMAX for simplicity since they handle everything at once. Notify your providers at least a few weeks before possession to ensure services are active when you move in.

Do the same for your internet and TV providers. Some may be booked weeks in advance, so plan ahead to avoid being without Wi Fi.

Update Your Mailing Address and IDs

Change your address on your bills, credit cards, insurance, and government records. Get a new driver’s licence showing your updated address.

You can set up mail forwarding with Canada Post so nothing is missed. Sometimes the previous owners forget to leave the community mailbox key, contact Canada Post. They will replace the lock and key at no charge.

Review the Home Inspection Report

Your inspection report is a great guide for post possession maintenance. Go through it and check off each small item that still needs attention.

Even if major repairs were negotiated during the purchase, there are usually minor fixes worth addressing once you settle in.

Download my free Calgary Homeowner Maintenance Checklist to stay organized.

What to Do Next

Moving into a new home in Calgary can be a whirlwind, but taking care of these essentials will help you feel settled faster.

Once you are unpacked, explore your new neighbourhood, meet your neighbours, and start building your own routines.

How to Get Help or Learn More

If you are thinking about buying or selling in Calgary, here are some helpful resources and ways to reach me.

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