Aug 18, 2026 Moving Company

Just Moved to Metro Vancouver? Here’s Your Complete New Homeowner Checklist

Posted by: Michael Carter

Michael Carter

Logistics & Transportation Specialist

Moving into a new home in Vancouver, Surrey, or Burnaby is exciting — but between unpacking boxes and figuring out where the light switches are, it’s easy to overlook the practical stuff that keeps your new place running smoothly. Whether you worked with local movers or handled a long-distance move into Metro Vancouver, here’s a checklist to help you settle in the right way.

1. Update Your Address Everywhere First

Before anything else, update your address with the post office, your bank, insurance provider, and employer. It sounds small, but it’s the task most new homeowners forget in the chaos of moving day — and the one that causes the most headaches a month later.

2. Get to Know Your New Neighbourhood

Whether you’re in Surrey, Burnaby, or elsewhere in the Lower Mainland, take a weekend to walk the neighbourhood. Find your nearest grocery store, transit stop, and emergency services. If you used a long-distance moving company to get here, this is also a good time to double check delivery windows for any items still in transit.

3. Unpack Strategically, Not All at Once

Start with the kitchen and bathroom — the two rooms you’ll need functioning within 24 hours. Bedrooms and living spaces can follow over the first week. Trying to unpack everything on day one usually just means more time spent hunting for boxes later.

4. Do a Full Walkthrough of the Property

Once the movers have left, walk through the entire home — not just the rooms you’ll be living in. Check:

• Windows and doors for drafts or damage
• The attic and roofline for obvious wear
• Plumbing fixtures for leaks
• The basement, especially if it’s your first home with one

5. Protect Your Basement From Day One

This last point deserves extra attention. A lot of new homeowners don’t think about basement waterproofing until they notice a damp smell or a wet spot on the floor — by which point it’s already a bigger (and pricier) fix. If your new home has a basement, it’s worth having it assessed early, especially before your first heavy rain season.

Since waterproofing isn’t something we handle ourselves, we like to point new homeowners toward companies that specialize in it. Two we’d recommend looking into for basement waterproofing are Aquatech Waterproofing — specializes in basement waterproofing, foundation crack repair, and interior/exterior waterproofing solutions.

Either is a solid starting point if you want a professional assessment before your first Canadian winter really tests your new home.

Moving to Metro Vancouver? My City Movers handles local moves across Vancouver, Surrey, and Burnaby, plus long-distance moves for anyone relocating from further afield.