It’s happening: you’re getting ready to move into your new home! One of the first steps to take is setting up your utilities so that you’ll have things like hot water and electricity on day 1.
Steps to take when setting up your utilities
Step 1: Identify Utilities
The basic five home utilities include:
- Heat (Natural Gas, Oil or Electric)
- Power (electricity)
- Water and Sewage
- Waste Collection
- Cable, Internet and/ or Phone
We recommend identifying your new utility providers about three weeks before your anticipated move in day. Service providers are usually listed on your city or county website. Upon reaching the provider’s official website, you can confirm if your home resides in the servicing area and then reach out.
Step 2: Set Up Utilities
Because each utility will need to be set up with each provider, we recommend beginning the utility setup process two weeks before you anticipate moving in. During your setup calls be sure to take down all account information for your new service and ask your provider some questions:
- How long does a setup or installation take?
- Do I need to be present during the setup?
- What are the activation fees I should be aware of?
Step 3: End Current Services
In addition to setting up utilities in your new home, it’s important to make sure you have closed your accounts with you current providers. To save yourself from making many calls on your last day, call about two weeks ahead of time and schedule the end of service. This also helps you avoid any confusions and late fees by providing advanced notice. That said, pay close attention to your utility bills when you move: there may be transfer fees, set up fees and final bills you were not expecting.
To find your local utility providers, enter your zip code at www.inmyarea.com/utilities
Did You Know?
If you live in a home that has an HOA, you may not be responsible for all utilities
In some places, utility companies may provide multiple services. For example, California’s major provider is Pacific Gas and Electric Company
If you move to a new neighborhood, how your home is heated may change – and that could mean a new utility provider. For example, moving from California to Massachusetts would likely require you to find an oil provider
