Whether you’re moving from an apartment in the city or upgrading to more space in Mt. Lebanon, Bethel Park, or Upper St. Clair, becoming a homeowner in the South Hills is a big step toward building long-term stability and comfort for your family.
Many new homeowners focus so much energy on the house hunt and closing process that they forget that move-in day is its own project. From setting up utilities and managing safety checks to introducing yourself to the neighborhood, the transition from property buyer to settled homeowner involves a lot of moving parts. While unpacking and organizing are obvious next steps, it’s the behind-the-scenes work that impacts how smoothly you adjust to your new space.
This guide will walk you through everything you may not have considered when planning your move.
Your first day in your new home will likely be spent navigating boxes, learning the quirks of your space, and dealing with small surprises. Having a “first-day box” with essential items makes this day much easier. Think of this as your go-to kit for comfort, functionality, and preparedness.
Instead of scrambling to find your toothbrush or a phone charger buried deep in a moving box, your first-day kit should hold everything you’ll need to get through those initial hours. Make sure to include basic cleaning supplies like paper towels, disinfectant spray, and a broom so you can freshen up surfaces before unpacking. Personal items such as hand soap, toiletries, towels, and a change of clothes will help you feel more settled after a long moving day. Having your bedding and pillows within reach means you can crash into bed without first tearing through boxes.
Don’t overlook tools like a screwdriver, hammer, or utility knife. You may need them immediately to assemble furniture or open sealed packages. Include some non-perishable snacks, water bottles, and coffee supplies to keep your energy up as you work through setup tasks. Pet supplies are equally important; food, leashes, and your pets’ favorite toys can help them feel secure in their new surroundings.
Transport this box in your vehicle or label it clearly so movers know to load it last and unload it first.
The South Hills region is full of charming older homes, scenic hillsides, and established neighborhoods. With that charm comes a few region-specific quirks to keep in mind.
One of your first tasks should be to ensure your home is secure. Many homes in Mt. Lebanon or Bethel Park have more than one exterior door, side entry, basement door, or detached garage. It’s common for lock types and keys to differ between doors, so plan to inspect each one carefully and decide if rekeying is necessary. Older locksets may not provide the security or convenience you need.
Next, test your HVAC system. South Hills homes may have gas furnaces, baseboard heating, or even oil heat in older builds. You’ll want to confirm that your heating and cooling systems function correctly and that you understand how to operate your thermostat—especially during Pittsburgh’s unpredictable weather shifts. Make a note to check and replace air filters if needed.
Water shutoff valves are sometimes tucked away in tricky areas like deep basements or crawlspaces. It’s a good idea to identify where yours is located immediately. Should a pipe burst or a toilet overflow, you’ll want to act fast without guessing where to turn off the main water line.
Before fully settling in, take a few moments for a structured walk-through. This helps you get acquainted with the home and uncover any immediate concerns.
Start by ensuring all windows and doors operate as expected and are secure. Check that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are present and working on each level of the home. Test light switches and power outlets to ensure your electrical systems are active. Turn on faucets and check under sinks for signs of leaking. Flush toilets, test the water heater, and take note of any slow drains or weak water pressure. Look around the foundation and basement walls for cracks or damp spots, which can signal moisture issues.
As you work through this checklist, write down any minor repairs or larger concerns you want to address in the first few weeks. Take photos as documentation, especially if you recently closed on the home and may need to consult the previous owner or home inspector.
One of the most critical steps in your move-in process is ensuring your home has working electricity, water, gas, and internet. In the South Hills, these services are typically provided by a handful of key companies.
Duquesne Light Company handles electricity in most neighborhoods. They offer a straightforward process for setting up a new service online or via phone. To avoid delays or reconnection fees, do this at least a week before moving.
For natural gas, Peoples Natural Gas serves the area and will require a start service request. Be aware that older homes with gas heat or gas stoves may need a technician to relight pilot lights if the gas was turned off before your move.
Pennsylvania American Water generally supplies water, but it’s worth double-checking your neighborhood, as a few areas may fall under municipal water authorities. Internet and cable options include Verizon Fios and Comcast Xfinity, which offer a range of packages. Installation windows can fill up quickly, so booking ahead is highly recommended, especially if you work remotely.
To avoid service gaps, coordinate with your previous utility providers to shut off service the day after you move out. Schedule your new service activations at least 7–10 days before your move-in date. Be ready with account numbers, your new address, and preferred billing preferences.
Ask about fees or deposits, which some providers require for first-time customers. Save confirmation emails and write down your new account numbers. Keep all information in a central folder, whether printed or digital, for easy access when you need to make changes or report a service issue.
Accidents and issues can happen during a move, especially in a home that’s new to you. Take a few minutes to compile a list of key local contacts. This might include:
Keep these numbers printed on your fridge or saved in your phone for quick reference in case of a leak, outage, or other unexpected situation.
Garbage collection varies between South Hills townships, and failing to follow the rules and regulations can result in missed pickups or fines.
In Mt. Lebanon, Westmoreland Sanitary Landfill/County Hauling handles weekly trash and biweekly recycling. You’ll need to follow guidelines for separating plastics, cardboard, and metals. Yard waste pickup is offered on a scheduled basis and may require stickers or advanced notice.
Bethel Park uses Waste Management, and your collection day will depend on your neighborhood, so check with the municipal office for the most up-to-date routes. In Upper St. Clair, trash pickup is divided into zones, and collection days vary accordingly. Township websites provide maps and instructions for bulky item disposal, recycling events, and more.
Note your regular collection day and prepare accordingly. Most services require that bins be placed at the curb by a specific time and retrieved promptly after collection.
Each municipality may have specific rules for new residents. For example, Mt. Lebanon requires a residential occupancy permit before a home can be legally occupied. This ensures the property complies with zoning laws and safety standards. The application typically includes a brief inspection and a fee.
In Bethel Park and Upper St. Clair, you may need to submit a rental or owner-occupant registration form, particularly if the home was recently sold or is being used as a rental property. Contact your local municipal building to find out what’s required based on your specific address.
If your move takes you to a new voting district, remember to update your voter registration. You can do this online via the PA Department of State or in person at your local election office. This ensures you’ll be eligible to vote in upcoming local, state, and federal elections, which often include ballot measures directly affecting your township.
Property taxes and earned income taxes vary across South Hills municipalities. After closing on your home, reach out to your local tax collector to:
Paying your taxes on time and to the correct agency avoids penalties and ensures you’re in good standing as a new homeowner.
One of the first things you should do as a new homeowner is change your locks. While the previous owners may seem trustworthy, you have no way of knowing how many keys are floating around, from contractors to babysitters to neighbors. Replacing or rekeying your locks ensures you’re the only one with access.
Local locksmiths can offer quick service and can often rekey multiple doors during a single visit. If you’re feeling handy, locksets can also be purchased and installed from your local hardware store.
If your home has a garage, test the keypad and reset the code if necessary. Many homes in South Hills also have basement or side entrances that may not be frequently used but still need to be secured.
Once you’ve handled locks and entry points, it’s time to turn your attention to indoor safety. Smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are critical safeguards that often get overlooked until there’s an emergency. Every level of your home, including the basement, should have working smoke detectors. Bedrooms and hallways leading to bedrooms should also have CO detectors.
Check the manufacturing date printed on each unit. Smoke detectors typically need to be replaced every 10 years, and CO detectors every 5–7 years. If the detectors are battery-operated, replace the batteries immediately, even if they appear to be working. This gives you a fresh baseline and peace of mind.
If your home has interconnected or hardwired detectors, test them using the test button. Some systems also alert the fire department when triggered; confirm that the monitoring service has your updated contact information.
Older homes in South Hills can be more susceptible to pest issues due to foundation cracks, outdated insulation, or surrounding foliage. Even if you don’t see signs of infestation, scheduling a professional pest inspection within your first month is wise. Ants, mice, spiders, and carpenter bees are common in the area, and preventive treatment is often more cost-effective than remediation.
In addition to pests, new homeowners should be aware of radon gas. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep through a home’s foundation. Prolonged exposure has been linked to lung issues, and Western Pennsylvania has relatively high radon levels. Purchase a DIY radon test kit or schedule a professional inspection. If levels are elevated, mitigation systems are widely available and can significantly improve indoor air quality.
Enhancing the safety of your property also includes outdoor lighting and home security systems. Motion-activated lights over entryways and garages can deter intruders and improve visibility at night. Interior timers for lights can make the home appear occupied when you’re away.
For security systems, South Hills residents have access to national brands like ADT as well as local providers like Guardian Protection, which is based nearby in Warrendale. Many systems now offer smart features like remote door locking, camera monitoring, and smartphone alerts. Choose a system that fits your budget and lifestyle.
Heating and cooling systems keep your home comfortable throughout the seasons, but they need regular attention to stay efficient. Start by checking the air filters on your furnace or HVAC unit. Dirty filters restrict airflow, increase energy use, and reduce air quality. In most homes, filters should be changed every 60 to 90 days. If you have pets, it should be changed more frequently.
While you’re at it, locate the shutoff switches for your HVAC units, learn how to reset your breaker, and inspect any ductwork for gaps or leaks. Schedule a seasonal tune-up with a local HVAC technician. A professional cleaning and inspection can prevent bigger issues later and may even extend the life of your unit.
Gutters are easy to forget but essential to maintaining your roof and foundation. Proper drainage is critical in the hilly neighborhoods of the South Hills. Clogged gutters can cause water damage along the eaves, siding, and basement walls.
Even if your home was recently inspected, it’s a good idea to climb a ladder (or hire a pro) and clear out leaves, twigs, and debris. Make sure downspouts extend away from the house and aren’t directing water toward your foundation. Some homeowners install gutter guards to minimize ongoing maintenance.
Due to the sloped topography of the South Hills, water runoff can be a concern. Walk around your home after a heavy rain to check for pooling near the foundation. Inside, inspect basement walls and floors for cracks, staining, or signs of efflorescence—a white, powdery substance that indicates water seepage.
If you spot issues, consider consulting a waterproofing contractor. Solutions range from grading adjustments to sump pumps and French drains. While these improvements can require upfront investment, they help preserve the integrity of your home and prevent mold growth.
If you’re used to apartment living, outdoor maintenance may be new territory. Now that you have a yard, you’ll need to plan for routine upkeep and future landscaping goals.
Start by mapping out areas for mowing, weeding, and planting. Be aware of local HOA or township regulations regarding fence height, tree removal, or shed installation. Some neighborhoods in Mt. Lebanon and Upper St. Clair also have ordinances about curb appeal and invasive plant species.
In early months, keep your focus simple: mow regularly, trim overgrowth, and clear any hazards. Over time, you can explore options like native gardens, patio installations, or erosion control techniques, especially if your property is on a slope.
Becoming part of a new community involves more than unpacking your boxes. It’s also about connecting with the people and places that make the South Hills feel like home. Most South Hills townships offer welcoming and well-equipped community centers where new residents can access a variety of resources, events, and services.
For example, the Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center hosts fitness classes, public skating, and youth sports leagues. Bethel Park’s Community Center is a hub for activities like art classes, senior programs, and family-friendly events. Upper St. Clair’s Community & Recreation Center includes a fitness facility, gymnasium, pools, and a walking track. Many of these centers offer free or low-cost memberships to residents.
You should stop by your local township building or community center soon after moving to pick up brochures, calendars of events, and registration forms for services like swimming lessons or summer camps.
The South Hills is full of green spaces that are great for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. South Park, a sprawling county park, offers miles of trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields. It’s an ideal weekend destination and frequently hosts farmers’ markets, concerts, and seasonal festivals.
In Upper St. Clair, Boyce Mayview Park features paved and unpaved trails, a playground, pavilions, and access to the Rec Center. Mt. Lebanon Park includes tennis courts, a basketball court, and several shaded walking paths, which are great for families with young children.
Several private and municipal swim clubs also operate in the area. Families often join these clubs to enjoy access to pools, summer events, and swim lessons. The Mt. Lebanon Swim Center and USC Community Pool are popular options during the warmer months.
If you’re a parent or planning to become one, learning about your school district is a top priority. Several well-regarded public school districts serve South Hills townships:
Even if you don’t have school-aged children, living in a top-ranked school district can enhance your home’s long-term value and community appeal.
Apps like Nextdoor allow you to join neighborhood-specific message boards where you can ask for recommendations, learn about local events, and report lost pets or safety concerns.
Local Facebook groups are great for crowdsourcing advice on everything from babysitters to lawn care. These groups are typically active and moderated, making them a reliable source of information.
You can also look for neighborhood block parties, local fairs, or township-sponsored meet-and-greets. Making time for community involvement can ease your transition and help you build lasting relationships.
Part of budgeting involves knowing where to turn when something goes wrong. Keeping a list of reliable service providers can save time and prevent overpaying for rushed jobs.
Ask neighbors or community groups for referrals to ensure you’re hiring trusted, experienced professionals who are familiar with the area.
Moving is one of the most exciting and stressful experiences a person can go through, especially when it involves transitioning into your first home. While the planning and packing process can feel overwhelming, the right moving company can make all the difference.
Gardner Moving understands the unique needs of local homeowners and offers services tailored to make your move as seamless and stress-free as possible. We can help with packing and unpacking and even provide temporary or long-term storage options.
Contact Gardner Moving today to schedule a free estimate or learn more about our services. With personalized support and local knowledge, we’re the moving company South Hills residents rely on when it’s time to take the next big step.
