Secure the home
Change exterior locks and codes, test every smoke and carbon monoxide alarm, and check that fire extinguishers are accessible.
A practical homeowner resource
From Offer Accepted to Settled In
A straightforward checklist for what to do while you are under contract, what to handle after closing, and how to stay ahead of common home maintenance.
Start the checklistBefore closing
Under contract? Do these 5 things next.
The weeks before closing move quickly. These steps help keep the insurance side of your purchase clear and on schedule.
- 01
Start the insurance conversation early
Share the property address, expected closing date, lender requirements, and any inspection details with your agent. Starting early leaves time to compare carriers and solve underwriting questions before closing.
- 02
Read the inspection with insurance in mind
Pay close attention to the roof, electrical panel, plumbing, heating system, foundation, and signs of prior water damage. Ask for specialist evaluations or repair receipts when the inspector flags a concern.
- 03
Confirm the right rebuilding estimate
Dwelling coverage should reflect the estimated cost to rebuild—not the sale price or land value. Review the home’s square footage, finishes, additions, and special features for accuracy.
- 04
Review water risks and optional protection
Standard homeowners insurance generally does not cover flooding, and sewer or drain backup coverage may need to be added. Ask about flood exposure, sump pumps, service lines, and the home’s drainage history.
- 05
Coordinate coverage with your closing
Confirm the policy effective date, named insureds, mortgagee information, deductible, and proof of insurance your lender needs. A final review helps prevent last-minute surprises.
After you get the keys
Your first-week home setup
A few simple actions now can make emergencies easier to handle and future claims easier to document.
Learn the systems
Locate the main water shutoff, gas shutoff, electrical panel, sump pump, HVAC filter, and sewer cleanout before you need them.
Create a home inventory
Photograph rooms, appliances, electronics, furniture, valuables, and serial numbers. Keep receipts and a copy of the inventory somewhere secure.
Build a maintenance calendar
Schedule recurring checks for gutters, filters, exterior drainage, the roof, plumbing, heating, cooling, and other major systems.
Preventive care
Home maintenance, broken down by season
Consistent maintenance can help you spot small problems before they become expensive damage.
Monthly
- Check for leaks under sinks and around toilets, appliances, and the water heater.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms; replace batteries as needed.
- Inspect HVAC filters and replace them according to the system and filter guidance.
- Make sure exterior drains, window wells, and sump areas are clear.
Spring & Summer
- Clean gutters and direct downspouts away from the foundation.
- Inspect the roof, siding, caulk, foundation, and grading after winter weather.
- Service cooling equipment and check outdoor faucets and hoses for leaks.
- Trim branches away from the roof, siding, and utility lines.
Fall & Winter
- Service the heating system and safely inspect fireplaces and chimneys.
- Disconnect hoses, protect exterior faucets, and insulate vulnerable pipes.
- Clear gutters after leaves fall and check for ice-dam trouble spots.
- Keep walkways lit and clear of snow and ice.
Once A Year
- Review your insurance after renovations, major purchases, or occupancy changes.
- Update your home inventory and store a backup away from the property.
- Check the water heater, sump pump, backup power, and appliance supply lines.
- Review emergency contacts and show household members where shutoffs are located.
Homebuyer questions
Helpful answers before and after closing
Every property and policy is different. These general answers are a useful starting point for a conversation with your agent.
Begin as soon as you are under contract. Your lender will usually need proof of coverage before closing, and an early start gives your agent time to review the property and compare options.
An inspection is not an insurance approval, but it can reveal conditions that affect eligibility or pricing. Older roofs, outdated electrical systems, plumbing concerns, unrepaired damage, and vacant properties may require more review.
Not necessarily. The purchase price includes factors such as land and location. Dwelling coverage is generally based on the estimated cost to rebuild the structure with comparable materials and labor.
Standard homeowners policies generally exclude flood damage. Sewer or drain backup coverage is also commonly handled through an added endorsement. Review both risks with your agent rather than assuming they are included.
Contact your agent before major renovations and when you add valuable items, install a pool or trampoline, begin renting part of the home, operate a business there, or make other changes that affect how the property is used.
Keep a current photo or video inventory, receipts for major purchases, serial numbers, renovation records, contractor invoices, and copies of your policy documents. Store a backup somewhere you can access if the home is damaged.
Ready for a coverage review?
Let’s make sure the home is protected from day one.
We compare options from multiple carriers and help coordinate the details with your closing timeline.