Comprehensive Utility Setup Guide

Timeline for Setup

4-6 Weeks Before Move

ï           Research providers in your new area

ï           Compare rates and plans

ï           Check for bundle discounts

2-3 Weeks Before Move

ï           Contact providers to schedule service

ï           Confirm installation dates

ï           Submit required documentation

1 Week Before Move

ï           Confirm all appointments

ï           Verify move-in date service activation

ï           Prepare access information for installers

Essential Utilities

Electricity

What You Need:

ï           New address and move-in date

ï           Government-issued ID

ï           Social Security Number (may be required)

ï           Previous address history

ï           Security deposit (if required based on credit)

Steps:

1.        Contact your local electricity provider (often only one option per area)
2.        Ask about budget billing to spread costs evenly
3.        Inquire about time-of-use rates if available
4.        Set up autopay to avoid late fees
5.        Request energy audit for efficiency recommendations

Pro Tips:

ï           Take photos of meter readings on move-in day

ï           Ask about renewable energy programs

ï           Check if same-day activation is possible for emergencies

Natural Gas

What You Need:

ï           Same documentation as electricity

ï           Landlord contact information (for apartments)

Steps:

1.        Determine if your home uses natural gas
2.        Contact local gas company (usually one per region)
3.        Schedule meter activation
4.        Ensure pilot lights are lit after activation
5.        Request safety inspection if home is older

Pro Tips:

ï           Gas company may need interior access for activation

ï           Ask about level payment plans

ï           Inquire about appliance warranty programs

Water and Sewer

What You Need:

ï           Proof of residence (lease or deed)

ï           Government-issued ID

ï           Previous account information (if applicable)

Steps:

1.        Contact city/county water department
2.        Water is often included in rent for apartments
3.        Set up billing (often combined with trash/sewer)
4.        Request water quality report
5.        Ask about conservation rebate programs

Pro Tips:

ï           Many areas don't allow provider choice for water

ï           Document any leaks or issues before move-in

ï           Check for smart meter availability

Internet and Cable

What You Need:

ï           Service address

ï           Desired internet speed and TV package

ï           Credit card or bank account for billing

Steps:

1.        Check which providers service your address (DSL, cable, fiber)
2.        Compare speeds and pricing from all available options
3.        Read contract terms carefully (installation fees, early termination)
4.        Schedule professional installation or request self-install kit
5.        Test speeds after installation to ensure promised delivery

Provider Options:

ï           Cable: Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox

ï           Fiber: AT&T Fiber, Verizon Fios, Google Fiber

ï           Satellite: HughesNet, Viasat (for rural areas)

ï           5G Home Internet: T-Mobile, Verizon

Pro Tips:

ï           Negotiate promotional rates (typically available)

ï           Buy your own modem/router to avoid rental fees

ï           Bundle services for discounts but calculate true savings

ï           Check for contract-free options

ï           Ask about installation fee waivers

Trash and Recycling

What You Need:

ï           Service address

ï           Number of bins needed

ï           Preferred pickup schedule

Steps:

1.        Check if service is municipal or private
2.        Many apartments include this in rent
3.        Choose bin sizes and pickup frequency
4.        Learn local recycling rules and schedules
5.        Request special waste pickup info (bulk items, hazardous)

Pro Tips:

ï           Pickup day may be predetermined by location

ï           Ask about yard waste collection

ï           Inquire about e-waste disposal options

Additional Services

Home Security System

Options:

ï           Professional monitoring (ADT, Vivint, Brinks)

ï           DIY systems (Ring, SimpliSafe, Wyze)

ï           Smart home integration (Google Nest, Amazon Alexa)

Considerations:

ï           Monthly monitoring fees vs self-monitoring

ï           Contract length and cancellation policies

ï           Equipment purchase vs rental

ï           Landlord approval for installations

Pest Control

When to Consider:

ï           Preventive treatment (quarterly or monthly)

ï           Known pest issues in area

ï           Required by landlord

Steps:

1.        Research local companies and read reviews
2.        Get quotes from 2-3 providers
3.        Ask about guarantees and retreatment policies
4.        Check if treatment is safe for pets/children

Money-Saving Strategies

Comparison Shopping

ï           Use comparison websites for internet/TV providers

ï           Check for first-time customer promotions

ï           Ask about employer or association discounts

ï           Consider prepaid options for flexibility

Bundle Deals

ï           Internet + TV packages often save 10-20%

ï           Some electricity providers offer bundled home services

ï           Verify bundles are actually cheaper than separate services

Conservation and Efficiency

ï           Request energy audits (often free)

ï           Install programmable thermostats

ï           Use energy-efficient appliances

ï           Fix leaks promptly to avoid water waste

ï           Adjust water heater temperature to 120°F

Payment Options

ï           Set up autopay for on-time payment discounts

ï           Use budget billing to avoid seasonal spikes

ï           Pay annually if discount is offered

ï           Use credit cards with utility payment rewards

Important Considerations

Deposits and Credit Checks

Most utilities will run a credit check. Poor credit may result in:

ï           Higher security deposits ($100-$300)

ï           Prepayment requirements

ï           Need for a co-signer

To Minimize Deposits:

ï           Provide previous utility payment history

ï           Show proof of on-time payments

ï           Ask about letter of credit from previous provider

ï           Provide employment verification

Rental Properties

Landlord Responsibilities:

ï           Check lease for included utilities

ï           Verify who handles service setup

ï           Get written permission for installations

ï           Confirm if you can choose providers

Common Scenarios:

ï           Water/trash often included in rent

ï           Gas/electric usually tenant responsibility

ï           Some apartments include all utilities

ï           Submetered properties bill separately

Documentation to Keep

Create a utilities folder with:

ï           All account numbers and login credentials

ï           Customer service phone numbers

ï           Installation/activation dates

ï           Initial meter readings with photos

ï           Service agreements and contracts

ï           Promotional rate expiration dates

ï           Cancellation policies and notice requirements

Setting Up Auto-Pay

Benefits:

ï           Never miss a payment

ï           Often includes small discount (1-2%)

ï           Builds positive payment history

Precautions:

ï           Monitor for billing errors

ï           Ensure sufficient funds always available

ï           Set calendar reminders before autodraft dates

ï           Keep backup payment method on file

Special Situations

Moving Mid-Month

ï           Most utilities prorate charges

ï           Document exact move-in date

ï           Take dated photos of meters

ï           Get final readings in writing

New Construction

ï           Services may not be activated yet

ï           May need temporary utilities during construction

ï           Coordinate with builder on connection dates

ï           Verify all infrastructure is complete

Rural Areas

ï           Limited or no natural gas service

ï           Propane tank rental and delivery needed

ï           Well water instead of municipal water

ï           Septic system instead of sewer

ï           Satellite or fixed wireless for internet

Vacation or Secondary Homes

ï           Ask about seasonal service suspension

ï           Maintain minimum service to prevent disconnection fees

ï           Consider security system with remote monitoring

ï           Arrange for irrigation system if applicable

Setup Checklist

Before Moving:

ï           [ ] Research all available providers

ï           [ ] Compare plans and pricing

ï           [ ] Check for bundle discounts

ï           [ ] Read reviews of local providers

ï           [ ] Verify credit score to anticipate deposits

ï           [ ] Schedule all installations 2-3 weeks out

ï           [ ] Confirm landlord approval if renting

Day of Move:

ï           [ ] Take photos of all utility meters

ï           [ ] Note any existing issues (leaks, damage)

ï           [ ] Test all utilities are functioning

ï           [ ] Verify installer completed work properly

ï           [ ] Get emergency contact numbers

ï           [ ] Locate utility shutoffs (water, gas, electric)

First Week:

ï           [ ] Verify first bills are accurate

ï           [ ] Set up online accounts

ï           [ ] Enable autopay or calendar billing reminders

ï           [ ] Register appliances for warranties

ï           [ ] Request energy efficiency tips

ï           [ ] Set calendar reminders for promotional rate expirations

First Month:

ï           [ ] Monitor usage patterns

ï           [ ] Adjust settings for efficiency

ï           [ ] Address any service issues immediately

ï           [ ] Review bills for unexpected charges

ï           [ ] Consider additional services if needed

Emergency Contacts

Keep these numbers accessible:

ï           Electric: Report outages immediately

ï           Gas: Gas smell = emergency, evacuate and call from outside

ï           Water: Know how to shut off main valve

ï           Internet: Have provider support number saved

ï           Non-utility emergencies: 911

Final Tips

**1.        Never turn on utilities in someone else's name **- this can create legal and credit issues

**2.        Document everything **- keep emails, take photos, save receipts

**3.        Understand your contract **- know cancellation policies, price lock periods, and fee structures

**4.        Set a calendar reminder **30 days before promotional rates expire to renegotiate or switch providers

**5.        Join local community groups **to learn about service quality and alternatives in your area

**6.        Consider smart home technology **to monitor and reduce utility usage

**7.        Keep physical copies **of important utility documents in case of digital access issues

**8.        Review annually **- utility needs and available providers change, reassess yearly for savings

Updated on: 01/02/2026