Bought a House with Vivint: Do This Final Checklist Before Moving In

If you are about to buy a house or have already purchased one outfitted with Vivint smart home technology, congratulations! You’re joining over 1.5 million customers who enjoy the convenience, security, and peace of mind that Vivint delivers. As one of the leading smart home companies in the United States, Vivint is renowned for its proactive security features, 24/7 monitoring, and innovative smart home solutions that make life easier and safer.

But before you rush into your new home, it’s critical to go through a final checklist to ensure everything is ready for move-in day. This article will guide you through the most important steps, from inspecting your Vivint system to updating emergency contacts, so you can transition smoothly and confidently into your new home.

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1. Inspect the Vivint System

Before moving in, schedule time to inspect the entire Vivint system installed in your home. Check the main control panel, door and window sensors, motion detectors, smart locks, video doorbells, cameras, thermostats, and any other connected devices.

Look for:

• Functional touchscreens or keypads
  
• Properly mounted cameras with a clear view
  
• Securely attached sensors
  
• Smoothly operating smart locks
  

Test each device to make sure it’s working correctly. For example, open and close doors and windows to see if sensors trigger, or walk past motion detectors to confirm they pick up movement. Also, check the live feed from cameras on the Vivint app to ensure you’re getting real-time visuals. If you discover any issues, contact Vivint’s customer support immediately for repairs or troubleshooting.

2. Change the System Codes and Passwords

Security starts with controlling who has access to your home. Since you’ve just bought the house, the previous owner may still know the system’s access codes or have administrator rights on the Vivint app.

• Reset the master code on the control panel.
  
• Update the Vivint app login credentials.
  
• Change passcodes for smart locks and guest access.
  
• Remove any old user profiles from the system.

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This step ensures that only you and your trusted household members can control and monitor the system. Don’t forget to set strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication on the app for added protection.

3. Test the Monitoring and Emergency Features

One of Vivint’s greatest strengths is its 24/7 professional monitoring, which actively helps prevent crime and responds to emergencies. Before moving in, verify that monitoring services are fully activated.

• Test the alarm system by setting off a controlled alarm (after notifying Vivint monitoring first).
  
• Check if the two-way communication works at the control panel.
  
• Confirm the system sends alerts to your phone and contacts emergency services if needed.
  

Additionally, walk through emergency protocols with your household. Everyone should know how to arm and disarm the system, use the panic button, and respond during a security alert.

4. Review the Smart Home Setup

Vivint is not just about security—it’s also about home automation. To get the most from your smart home, review the automation settings.

• Check the smart thermostat schedule for heating and cooling.
  
• Set up custom scenes, such as “Away Mode,” which locks doors, turns off lights, and arms the alarm.
  
• Program smart lighting to suit your routine.
  
• Integrate compatible devices like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
  

Make sure everything is configured according to your lifestyle and needs. This will help you experience the full convenience and efficiency of your Vivint home from day one.

5. Transfer Ownership and Update the Vivint Account

To ensure smooth service, transfer ownership of the Vivint system from the previous homeowner to yourself. This process typically involves:

• Calling Vivint customer support to initiate the transfer.
  
• Providing proof of homeownership.
  
• Setting up a new service agreement in your name.
  
• Registering your contact details, including email and phone number.
  

Without this step, you might experience interruptions in monitoring or lose access to app features. Get this done before moving in to avoid headaches later.

6. Check the Internet and Wi-Fi Connections

Vivint systems rely heavily on a stable internet connection to function properly. Before move-in day:

• Verify that the home’s Wi-Fi network is active and has strong coverage in all areas where Vivint devices are installed.
  
• Connect all Vivint devices to your Wi-Fi and test them.
  
• Update the Wi-Fi credentials in the Vivint app and on the control panel if you change the router or password.
  

If your new home has Wi-Fi dead zones, consider installing mesh Wi-Fi systems or extenders to ensure seamless connectivity across all devices.

7. Verify All Smart Devices Are Updated

Smart home technology evolves quickly, and manufacturers like Vivint regularly release software updates to improve performance and security.

• Check for firmware or software updates on all Vivint devices.
  
• Use the Vivint app or control panel to install any pending updates.
  
• Set devices to automatically update when connected to Wi-Fi, if possible.
  

Keeping everything updated ensures you benefit from the latest features, fixes, and protections against potential cyber threats.

8. Create Emergency Contact Lists

It’s essential to have an updated emergency contact list linked to your Vivint account. This list tells Vivint’s monitoring center whom to notify if an alarm is triggered.

• Add yourself, family members, or close friends.
  
• Include a neighbor or someone nearby who can check on your home.
  
• Confirm that all phone numbers are current.
  

This step can make all the difference in minimizing damage or loss during an emergency.

9. Educate Your Household on System Use

A smart home is only effective if everyone in the household knows how to use it.

• Teach all family members how to operate the Vivint control panel and app.
  
• Show them how to lock/unlock doors, arm/disarm the system, and adjust smart devices.
  
• Explain how to respond to alerts or emergencies.
  

This creates a more confident and prepared household, reducing the chance of false alarms or system misuse.

10. Schedule a Final Walkthrough With Vivint Support

To wrap everything up, consider scheduling a final walkthrough or virtual consultation with Vivint customer support.

• Ask for a system review to ensure all devices are properly installed and configured.
  
• Get help with any last-minute adjustments.
  
• Clarify billing, service agreements, and available upgrades.
  

Vivint’s support team is a valuable resource, and their assistance can help you move in with total confidence.

Bonus Tips for Moving Into a Vivint Home

Here are a few extra tips to make your move as smooth as possible:

• Backup Power: Make sure all smart devices with battery backup (like door locks and sensors) have fresh batteries.
  
• Label Everything: Label control panels, outlets, and smart switches so new household members know what controls what.
  
• Inventory Devices: Keep a list of all Vivint devices, including serial numbers, for easy reference.
  
• Plan for Future Expansion: Consider whether you want to add more smart devices like garage openers, cameras, or smart plugs later.

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Why Vivint Is a Smart Move for Homebuyers

Vivint’s reputation as a top-tier smart home provider is well-earned. With features like 24/7 professional monitoring, proactive security, smart automation, and a user-friendly app, Vivint goes beyond traditional home security. By following the checklist above, you can maximize your system’s benefits and enjoy a safer, more efficient home from the moment you walk through the door.

Final Thoughts

Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, and with Vivint, you’re starting off with a significant advantage. By completing this final checklist before moving in, you ensure that your smart home system is secure, functional, and tailored to your needs. From inspecting the system and updating passwords to testing monitoring services and educating your family, these steps will help you make the most of your investment.