Turn on Utilities
If you haven’t already notified the utility companies to transfer gas, water, electrical, trash and sewer into your name.
Alabama Power: 800-245-2245
http://www.alabamapower.com/residential.html
Birmingham Water Works: 205-244-4000
https://www.bwwb.org/contactus
Spire: 800-292-4008
https://www.spireenergy.com/transfer-service
Change the Locks
You have no idea how many strangers could have keys to your new home. Call a locksmith pronto and get those locks changed. If your door is missing a deadbolt, a locksmith can install that, too. Most mobile locksmiths charge around $100 to make a home visit, plus extra for the keys. This is a good time to change all the locks to work with a single key.
Change Mailing Address
Finding local businesses after you move is about as hard as asking, “Hey, Siri, where is the post office?” With Locations turned on, your cellphone can locate many businesses for you. The U.S.P.S. lets you change your mailing address online. Even so, they will likely mix up mail for a while, and not all of it tends to get forwarded.
Set Up Security
For safety conscious people, a home security system is often a necessity for peace of mind. If your home already has the equipment installed, it will take next to no time for the security company to activate it. Some companies install systems that let you set the security alarm when you are inside the home at night, which is extra comfort for single individuals. Choose strong security codes, one for you and one for guests.
Establish Internet
For safety conscious people, a home security system is often a necessity for peace of mind. If your home already has the equipment installed, it will take next to no time for the security company to activate it. Some companies install systems that let you set the security alarm when you are inside the home at night, which is extra comfort for single individuals. Choose strong security codes, one for you and one for guests.
Meet the Neighbors
Hopefully the neighbors will appear bearing Tupperware meals or plates full of cookies. If you spot them eyeing you unloading boxes, invite them over. They should know enough to just walk over and introduce themselves, but some do not. Or, they worry they are intruding. Make a special effort to remember names. Don’t be that guy whom for years ignores a super nice woman next door because you don’t want to admit you don’t know her name.