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Stay Connected: Guide to Managing Utilities During a Move
Among the many moving tasks competing for your attention, managing utilities might seem straightforward, but poor planning can leave you arriving at a dark, cold, or disconnected new home. Coordinating utility transfers and connections requires precise timing, organization, and a thorough understanding of each service provider’s specific requirements. Here’s how to ensure your household move includes seamless utility transitions, keeping your life running smoothly.
Create a Comprehensive Utility Inventory
Start by documenting every utility service at your current home. Beyond the obvious utilities like electricity, gas, and water, consider additional services such as internet, cable, trash collection, alarm systems, and any specialized services like propane delivery or well water maintenance. Contact each provider to understand their disconnection and connection policies, as requirements vary significantly between companies and regions. Many utility companies require advance notice for disconnection and connection services, sometimes scheduling weeks in advance. Create a master list with company names, account numbers, contact information, and specific scheduling requirements for each service.
Time Your Disconnections and Connections Strategically
Schedule utility disconnections at your old home for the day after you move out, never before. This ensures you have lights, heat, and water available during final cleaning and last-minute packing. Similarly, arrange connections at your new home to begin the day before or the day you arrive. For essential services like electricity and heat, consider overlapping service dates to avoid any gaps. The small additional cost of a few days of dual service prevents the inconvenience and potential problems of arriving at a home without power or heat, especially during extreme weather conditions.
Research Utility Options at Your New Location
Don’t assume you’ll use the same providers at your new address. Research available options for electricity, natural gas, internet, and cable services. Some areas offer deregulated markets, allowing you to choose your energy supplier and potentially save money or access better service plans. Compare rates and service options before making decisions. Read customer reviews and check service reliability ratings, especially for internet providers, as switching after moving can be complicated and time-consuming.
Handle Internet and Cable Services Early
Internet and cable installations often require the longest lead times and may need professional installation appointments. Contact providers at least three weeks before your move to schedule installations. If you’re keeping the same provider but changing locations, ask about transfer options that might expedite the process. Consider your internet needs carefully, especially if you work from home. Research available speeds and data options at your new address, as rural or suburban areas might have different service levels than urban locations. Having backup mobile data plans during the transition period ensures you stay connected for work or essential communications.
Don’t Forget Municipal Services
Contact your new city or town to establish accounts for water, sewer, and trash collection services. Many municipalities require deposits for new residents, and some require in-person visits to set up accounts. Research local recycling programs and pickup schedules, as these vary significantly between locations. If you’re moving from an apartment to a house, you might encounter utility services you haven’t managed before. Understanding your responsibilities for services like sewer, stormwater, or waste management prevents surprises on your first bills.
Prepare for Potential Deposits and Fees
Many utility companies require security deposits for new customers, especially if you’re moving from another state or have a limited credit history with local providers. These deposits can range from modest amounts to several hundred dollars, so budget accordingly. Some companies waive deposits if you provide a letter of credit from your previous utility company confirming good payment history. Request these letters before disconnecting services at your old home, as obtaining them afterward can be difficult.
Notify Important Services of Your Address Change
Beyond basic utilities, update your address with alarm companies, home warranty services, and any other relevant maintenance contracts, such as HVAC or pest control. These services often require advance notice to transfer or cancel contracts, and some may charge fees for early termination. If you use automatic payment systems for utilities, update your bank account information and verify that payments will continue seamlessly at your new address. Missed utility payments during the transition to a new location can result in service interruptions and reconnection fees.
Plan for Special Circumstances
If you’re moving during peak summer or winter months, prioritize electricity and HVAC services to ensure comfortable living conditions. Moving during extreme weather makes utility planning even more critical for your family’s safety and comfort. For moves involving significant distance or time gaps between leaving one home and entering another, consider temporary housing utility needs. Extended-stay hotels or temporary rentals may require different arrangements for internet or other essential services for work or daily life.
Keep Important Information Accessible
Maintain a file with all utility account numbers, confirmation numbers, and scheduled appointment times. Keep this information easily accessible during your move, as you may need to reference or modify arrangements on short notice. Take photos or screenshots of final meter readings at your old home and initial readings at your new home. This documentation helps resolve any billing disputes and ensures that you’re only charged for the utilities you actually used.
Test Everything Upon Arrival
Once you arrive at your new home, test all utility services immediately. Check electrical outlets, water pressure, heat and air conditioning, and internet connectivity. Report any problems to providers immediately, as delays in reporting issues can complicate resolution and may result in additional service charges. Keep contact information for all utility providers easily accessible during your first few weeks in the new home. Having these numbers readily available helps you quickly address any service issues or questions about your new accounts.
Power Up Your New Beginning
Managing utilities during a move requires careful coordination, but proper planning ensures you’ll arrive at a fully functional home ready for your new chapter. Taking time to research options and schedule services appropriately prevents the stress and inconvenience of utility disruptions during an already busy time. Ready to simplify your move? Get your free quote from Rodi and let our experienced team help coordinate all aspects of your relocation, so you can focus on settling into your new home with confidence.
