Key takeaways
- Book movers early, and condo elevators if needed.
- Your utility providers depend on your address.
- Resale homes rarely include a warranty, so build a repair fund.
- Test smoke and CO alarms when you move in.
In this chapter
Planning Your MoveSetting Up UtilitiesHome Maintenance TipsNavigating Your New Neighbourhood
Visual guide · GTA buying guide
Moving countdown
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| 8 weeks | Compare movers |
| 4 weeks | Book movers and elevator |
| 2 weeks | Set up utilities and insurance |
| 1 week | Change your address |
| Moving day | Test alarms, read meters |
Planning Your Move
Start planning as soon as your closing date is set. Get written quotes from a few movers, and check their reviews. If you’re moving into a condo, book the elevator early, and ask about any rules on moving times.
Declutter before you pack. Sell, donate or discard what you don’t need, because every box costs time or money to move.
Pack the things you rarely use first, label each box with its room, and keep an essentials box with medications, chargers, documents and basic supplies. Try to leave a little time between closing and moving, in case your keys arrive late in the day.
Visual guide · GTA buying guide
Utility contacts
| Service | Who |
|---|---|
| Electricity | Your local distributor |
| Gas | Enbridge Gas in most of the GTA |
| Water | Your municipality |
| Internet | Check availability |
Pack an essentials box
Setting Up Utilities
Arrange your utilities a couple of weeks before you move, so the services are ready when you arrive. Providers depend on your address.
Toronto Hydro serves the City of Toronto, and other utilities serve the rest of the GTA. Enbridge Gas provides natural gas to most of the area. Your municipality handles water and collects waste. Ask your lawyer how the seller’s final water bill is handled.
Book internet early, because installation can take longer than expected. Several companies serve the GTA, so compare packages. Also arrange home insurance before closing, because your lender will require it.
Seasonal care
Have these ready for utilities
Home Maintenance Tips
Good maintenance prevents small problems from becoming big bills. A simple seasonal routine is enough for most homes.
In spring, check the roof and clean the eavestroughs. In summer, look after outside paint, caulking, decks and grading. In fall, service the furnace, shut off outdoor taps and clear the leaves. In winter, watch for ice dams and keep vents clear of snow.
Inside, check for leaks and change furnace filters as directed. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly.
New homes in Ontario generally have Tarion warranty coverage. For a resale home, a repair fund is usually more dependable than a third-party warranty, so read any warranty contract carefully.
Navigating Your New Neighbourhood
Walk your neighbourhood in your first week. Find the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, transit stop and park. Check your waste collection schedule, and find out where you’d go for urgent medical care.
If you have children, contact the school early. If you need a family doctor, begin your search soon, as it can take time.
Then say hello. Introduce yourself to your neighbours, try a local café and look up community groups and events. A few small connections can make a new place feel like home.
First month in a new area
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