New Homeowner Move-In Checklist for OC Properties

A practical checklist of everything to do in the first 30 days after closing on your Orange County home.

By Shasta Greene · January 10, 2026 · 5 min read

Congratulations on closing on your Orange County home! The first 30 days after moving in are critical—there's a lot to accomplish, from securing your property to setting up utilities. This checklist will help you navigate the essentials, so you can settle in smoothly and protect your investment in our beautiful OC community.

Week One: Security & Access

Your first priority is making your home secure and fully yours. Change or rekey all exterior locks—you never know who might have copies from previous owners. Update your garage door opener codes, especially important in Orange County's secure neighborhoods. Register your garage door remotes in your name with the manufacturer, and don't forget to reprogram any gate access codes if applicable.

• Change or rekey all exterior locks (front, back, side doors)
• Update garage door opener codes and remotes
• Reprogram security system codes and contact information
• Reset any gate or community access codes
• Locate and label all utility shut-offs

Week Two: Utilities & Services

Set up or transfer all utilities in your name. Contact Southern California Edison (SCE) or your local provider for electricity, SoCalGas for natural gas, and your water company—each OC city has different providers. Activate internet and phone services, schedule HVAC inspection before summer heat arrives, and set up trash and recycling with your municipality.

• Transfer or activate electricity (SCE or local provider)
• Set up natural gas account (SoCalGas)
• Arrange water and sewer services with your city
• Install internet and phone services
• Schedule HVAC inspection and filter replacement
• Confirm trash and recycling pickup days

Week Three: Documentation & Protection

Organize your closing documents and create a home binder with important records. Update your address with the DMV, banks, insurance companies, and the post office. Schedule a professional home inspection if you haven't already—it provides baseline documentation of your property's condition. Order copies of your deed from the Orange County Recorder's Office and set up homeowner insurance if you haven't already.

• Create a home binder with closing documents and warranties
• Update address with DMV, banks, and insurance
• File change of address with USPS
• Schedule professional home inspection for documentation
• Request deed copy from Orange County Recorder
• Confirm homeowner insurance coverage is active

Week Four: Maintenance & Community

Schedule routine maintenance before issues arise. Have your plumbing and electrical systems inspected by licensed professionals. If you're in an HOA community—common in Orange County—review all CC&Rs, obtain contact info, and attend your first community meeting. Meet your neighbors and introduce yourself to local services like your preferred plumber and electrician.

• Schedule plumbing and electrical inspections
• Have HVAC system serviced and inspected
• Review HOA documents and meeting schedules
• Register with your HOA and attend orientation
• Introduce yourself to neighbors and community
• Research and save contact info for local service providers

These 30 days set the foundation for a successful homeownership experience in Orange County. Staying organized and proactive now prevents costly surprises later. If you have questions about your property, local services, or need recommendations for trusted contractors, I'm here to help. Welcome home!

Shasta Greene is an Orange County, California real estate advisor and REALTOR®, DRE #02174153.