You Got the Keys... Now What? What to Do on Closing Day (for Renters & Owners)

Jul 22

You did it. After weeks (or months) of searching, paperwork, and anticipation, you’re holding the keys to your new place. Whether you’ve just bought your first home or signed a lease on a great rental, the feeling is the same: this place is yours now.

So… now what?

Closing Day isn’t just about celebrating. It’s also about making smart first moves to protect your investment, ease your transition, and set yourself up for a smooth start. Here’s what to do right after you get your keys—whether you’re a brand-new homeowner or a proud new tenant.

1. Do a Final Walkthrough (Yes, Even as a Renter)

Before moving in a single box, take 10–15 minutes to walk through the property.

For homeowners: Look for anything that has changed since your offer, such as damage, missing inclusions (like appliances or light fixtures), or leftover junk. Contact your agent immediately if anything seems off.

For renters: Document the current condition of the unit with photos and/or video. Note any existing damage in writing and send it to your landlord right away so you’re not held responsible later.

2. Check That Utilities Are Set Up

Hopefully, you’ve arranged for hydro, water, gas, and internet ahead of time. Now’s the time to double-check that everything’s working.

Owners: Locate your electrical panel and water shut-off valve. If there’s a furnace, hot water tank, or sump pump, familiarize yourself with them now before there’s ever an issue.

Renters: If anything isn’t functional (heat, hot water, outlets, etc.), report it immediately. You shouldn’t be troubleshooting on day one.

3. Change the Locks (or Get New Keys)

If you own the home: Always change the locks. You don’t know who may still have a copy of the old keys.

If you’re renting: Ask the landlord if the locks were rekeyed between tenants. If not, request it—or ask if you can provide a new lock at your own cost.

4. Clean Before You Move In

Even if the previous owners or tenants cleaned, you’ll likely want to do a quick refresh.

Focus on:

Kitchen counters, cupboards, and fridge
Bathrooms
Inside closets
High-touch surfaces (light switches, doorknobs)

Pro tip: It’s 100x easier to do this before your boxes and furniture are everywhere.

5. Find the “Important Stuff”

Before you’re buried in unpacking, locate:

The breaker panel
The water shut-off
The thermostat
The mailbox and garbage/recycling bins
The Wi-Fi modem/router spot
Smoke detectors (check they work!)

If anything is missing or unclear, now’s the time to ask your agent, landlord, or super.

6. Secure Your Insurance

Whether you’re a renter or owner, you should already have insurance lined up for your new address. If not, call a broker immediately.

Homeowners: You’ll need home insurance in place for your mortgage to go through, but don’t forget to update it if you add valuables, build something, or renovate.

Renters: Tenant insurance is cheap and protects your belongings, even if damage isn’t your fault.

7. Update Your Address

Make a list of everyone who needs to know you’ve moved, including:

Canada Post (for mail forwarding)
Your bank and credit cards
Driver’s licence and health card
Work or school
Subscription services and online deliveries

8. Celebrate, But Don’t Panic If It Doesn’t Feel “Home” Yet

That “wow, I live here” feeling doesn’t always hit right away. Sometimes it takes a few weeks or even months to feel truly at home... and that’s okay.

Light a candle. Order pizza. Sit on the floor and soak it in. Home doesn’t happen all at once, but it starts the moment you turn that key.

Need a Moving Checklist or More Advice?
We’ve got plenty of resources to help. Whether you’re buying, renting, upsizing, or moving to Ottawa for the first time, we’re here to make sure your move feels easy. Reach out any time.