Setting up electricity, gas, water, and internet

• ✺Without proactive setup, you risk moving into a place with no power, heat, water, or internet.
• ✺Late setup for some utilities (like gas, which may require an inspection) can take longer than expected.
• ✺Having accounts in your own name avoids confusion or liability for someone else's usage.

1. 1Check your lease for which utilities you must set up yourself.
2. 2Identify the local providers for each (ask your landlord if unsure).
3. 3Contact each provider online or by phone to open a new account.
4. 4Provide your move-in date, address, and any required information or deposit.
5. 5Schedule installation or activation to happen on or just before move-in day.
6. 6Confirm all accounts are active once you move in.

Service address

The physical address where utility service will be provided.

Activation

The process of turning on utility service for a new account.

Self-install kit

Equipment some internet providers send so customers can set up service without a technician visit.

• ✗Waiting until move-in day to start setting up utilities.
• ✗Not asking the landlord which company serves the property for each utility.
• ✗Forgetting that gas service sometimes requires an in-person safety inspection, which takes longer to schedule.
• ✗Not budgeting for a possible deposit on new utility accounts.

• !Some utility providers require a few business days to over a week to schedule installation or activation.
• !Gas service often requires a technician to safely turn on service and check appliances, which can take longer to schedule than electric.
• !You may need photo ID and proof you're moving into the unit (like a lease) when opening some utility accounts.
• !Keep confirmation numbers or emails for every account you set up.

• Identify the utilities you're responsible for and their local providers.
• Contact each provider at least one to two weeks before moving.
• Be prepared for possible deposits, especially without an existing account history.
• Confirm all services are active by your move-in date.

Totally optional. Nobody's grading you.

1. 1.Make a list of utilities you need to set up based on your lease.
2. 2.Contact providers at least a week before your move-in date.

Related lessons:

• Understanding utilities
• Moving checklists
• Moving out for the first time

• Moving checklist and utilities
  USA.gov(opens in a new tab)
• Energy saver tips
  U.S. Department of Energy(opens in a new tab)