Baton Rouge moving checklist

Don’t get caught on moving day without Internet or electricity. Before you settle into your new home, remember to:

Inspect the property and major appliances. Let your landlord or real estate agent know about any damage or about anything that isn’t working to ensure repairs will take place before you move in.

Have the locks rekeyed. Previous tenants may still have access to old house keys.

File a homestead exemption. A homestead exemption can lower the taxes you pay on your house. You may need to file a new one if you purchase a new home. Contact your parish assessor’s office for details.

Check on a home warranty. Recently built homes may still be under warranty, and it may be transferable at closing. A warranty can protect you against expensive repair bills in case something goes wrong with a large system like plumbing or air conditioning, or even with a major appliance. You can also buy a warranty separately. Ask your real estate agent for details.

Set up alarm service. City of Baton Rouge and some East Baton Rouge Parish residents, both renters and homeowners alike, pay a one-time $25 non-transferable permit to operate a burglar alarm.

Inspect smoke alarms. Elderly or disabled residents may qualify for free smoke alarm installation through the Fire Prevention Division of the Baton Rouge Fire Department. Call 354-1431.

Change your mailing address. You can complete a form at a post office or at moversguide.usps.com. It takes 7-10 days to start receiving mail at your new address. You can set a “start” date up to three months in advance of your move. Update your address with your bank, credit card company, doctor’s office, insurance company, online retail accounts and magazine and catalog subscriptions.

Check on other services. The previous tenant may have already established services such as termite treatment, pest control or landscaping. Consider asking who their technicians were and what the contracts covered. The services may be transferable to your name.

Save your receipts. Some move-related expenses may be tax-deductible: if you moved far enough, for example, or to start a new job or your own business.

For more moving resources, check out our Baton Rouge utilities phonebook.

—FAITH DAWSON