Moving day is particularly hectic — and so are the days and weeks leading up to it. With so many moving tasks to track, utilities may be the last thing on your mind. But forgetting to cancel or start an essential service like electricity or gas can throw a wrench into your smooth move.
Follow these tips to switch over your utilities seamlessly.
List All of Your Utilities
About a month before moving day, create a spreadsheet of all the utilities you currently use. Include each provider’s name, contact information (such as website and phone number), and your account number.
Common utilities include:
- Electricity
- Natural gas
- Water
- Sewer
- Garbage
- Recycling
- Internet
- Cable TV
- Phone
- Home security
Switch or Transfer Utilities?
Next, look up the available utilities for your new home and add them to your list.
If you’re moving locally, your new home may use the same utility provider. In this case, you may be able to transfer service. That means you can simply have the utility disconnected from your old home and reconnected at your new home without setting up a new account.
If your move is farther away, find contact information for local utility providers. In some areas, you may choose providers; research to see which services match your budget and needs.
Contact Utility Providers
No more than three weeks from moving day, contact your existing utility providers. Often, the provider’s website will have a disconnect form; if not, give them a call. Schedule the service disconnection for the day after you move.
A utility company will require your new address so that they can send your final billing statement. However, if you have any outstanding or late bills, pay them now to avoid any issues.
Next, contact the utility providers for your new home. Request that they start service the day before your scheduled move-in day. Some providers may require a deposit before turning on services, so keep that in mind when you’re budgeting for the move.
Don’t wait until the last minute to disconnect or connect, as some utilities require advance notice.
Follow-Up Utility Steps
Before you move out, arrange for one final meter reading. You don’t want to have to deal with a billing discrepancy after you’ve moved.
Once you’re in your new home, take a quick break from unpacking boxes and ensure all the utilities are working correctly. Turn on the heat, make sure you don’t smell natural gas, and ensure the water heater works.
Making the Move
Switching utilities on and off is just one part of the complexity of a move — but it’s essential to get it right. Give yourself plenty of time to ensure that you don’t overlook any utility providers before or after your move.
If you need help getting to your new home, we can help. Contact us for a free quote today.