How to set up utilities when you move: a step-by-step guide

Step 1: find out who provides what

Your landlord, property manager or the home's seller can tell you which services are included in rent, which ones you need to set up, and which companies serve the address. Many buildings have a welcome sheet with this information. If not, the local city or county website usually lists the water and trash provider, and your state's utility commission lists electric and gas utilities by area. For internet, enter the exact address on providers' sites; availability can vary from one building to the next.

Step 2: schedule in the right order

Step 3: have your details ready

Providers usually ask for your full name, the service address and start date, a phone number and email, a form of ID, and often your Social Security number for a credit check. If you prefer not to share your SSN, ask what alternatives they accept; some will take a deposit instead. Have a payment method ready in case of a deposit or setup fee.

Step 4: move-in day

Check that the power, water and any gas appliances work. Photograph every meter with the date visible. Test the internet and Wi-Fi. If something is not on, call the provider right away with your confirmation number. Keep a note of every confirmation number and the name of anyone you spoke to.

Step 5: set up payment

Decide how you will pay each bill: autopay from checking, a credit card you pay in full, or manual payment with a calendar reminder. Autopay prevents late fees, but check each bill before it is paid, especially in the first months, so you notice estimated readings or setup charges.

Moving out later

When you leave, schedule each service to stop the day after you return the keys, give every provider your new address for the final bill and any deposit refund, and take final meter photos. If you are moving within the same provider's area, ask to transfer service instead of closing and reopening; it may avoid a new deposit.

Keep your first bills in check

The first bill at a new address can include a setup or connection fee, a partial month and sometimes an estimated meter reading. Compare the reading on the bill with your move-in photo. If the utility estimated your usage, you can usually submit your own reading or ask for an actual one. Over the first few months, note what each bill costs so you have a baseline; a sudden jump later is easier to spot and question. If a bill ever becomes hard to pay, call the provider before the due date to ask about payment plans, and check USA.gov's list of help with utility bills, which includes the federal LIHEAP program run through states.